Distractions: Fear/Anxiety

Philippians 4:6-8 | Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

• What does “fixing your thoughts” on something mean? What should believers fix their thoughts on according to Philippians 4? 

• How does fear, worry, anxiety, or stress keep people from keeping their thoughts fixed on Christ?

Matthew 14:24-31 | Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,”Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”

• How did Peter get distracted? 

• What was the result of getting distracted for Peter? How does this happen in our lives too? 

• What are some things that get you worried, stressed, anxious, or afraid? Head back to Philippians 4:6-8 to see what you should do about them Satan can’t use them to distract you!