As people witnessed Jesus performing miracles, many wanted to follow him. In both his responses to the crowds and in the two miracles described in this passage, Jesus makes it clear that he is not just a good teacher, but God’s appointed King. He invites the crowds to respond to him in the same way that natural and spiritual forces do.

1. Matthew 8:20 – What comforts would be most difficult for you to give up? Ask God for a willingness to surrender everything for him. If possible, incorporate giving up one of those comforts into your fasting.
2. Matthew 8:22 – Is there anything that might be delaying or distracting your pursuit of Jesus? Give it over to God in prayer: make a verbal agreement that he can be in charge of it, and that you want to follow him.
3. Matthew 8:24 – Are you able to stay peaceful and at rest when things seem to be going wrong? Write down the consistent emotions you experience when in tense situations, and invite the Holy Spirit into each of them.

• The Bible Project: The Gospel
• Guided Prayer: Peace
• “The Three Tests” - Sermon