(Jesus) "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

"In everything we do we show that we are God's servants, by enduring troubles, hardships and difficulties with great patience." 2 Corinthians 6:4 (GN)

I. DETERMINE THE REASON         Ask: WHAT CAUSED THIS?.

"I tried to think this problem through but it was too difficult for me until I went into your Temple." Psalm 73:16-17 (GN)

Common Mistakes

·      We listen to BAD ADVICE - "...they followed the advice of the pilot..." (vs. 11)

·      We follow THE CROWD - "…the majority decided that we should sail..." (vs 12)

·      We rely on CIRCUMSTANCES "When a gentle south wind began to blow, they thought

they had obtained what they wanted..." (vs 13)

II. DETERMINE THE RESULT        Ask: WHAT DOES GOT WANT ME TO LEARN?

"These little troubles, which are temporary, are winning for us a permanent, glorious and solid reward all out of proportion to our pain." 2 Corinthians 4:17 (Ph)

"We can rejoice when we run into problems and trials for we know...they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time..." Romans 5:3-4 (LB)

III. DETERMINE MY RESPONSE     Ask: HOW SHOULD I REACT?

Wrong Response

"To Drift" "...so we gave way to it and were driven along." (vs 15)

"To Discard"...they began to throw the cargo overboard..." (vs 18)

"To Despair" "...we finally gave up all hope of being saved." (vs 20)

THE RIGHT RESPONSE

·      CONFESS MY PART "A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance." Proverbs 28:13 (LB)

·      CONFRONT THE PROBLEM "Therefore we know we're going to crack up so I encourage you to eat. Take some food." (vs. 34-40)

·      CLAIM A PROMISE Verse 25 "Therefore keep up your courage, men, for I believe God that it will turn out exactly as I have been told." (vs. 22-25)