TITLE: Contrary Winds

TEXT: Matthew 14:22-33

PROPOSITION: Contrary winds can be a blessing in disguise.

QUESTION: Why

KEY WORD: Oppositions

SCRIPTURE READING: Same

1. We cannot have the winds without them sometimes for us
   and sometimes against us.
2. This keeps life from being dull and full of boredom.
3. It takes no skill to sail with the wind.
   When the wind is against you – that takes skill.

We have to row against contrary winds

1. Man still has to battle contrary winds in life
2. There is no escape from opposing winds by becoming a Christian
3. Paul – had to battle discouraging forces all his life
4. Joseph – sold into slavery by his brothers
5. Adverse winds discipline us – Hebrews 12:11
6. Negative circumstances try our faith – Hebrews 11:17

Some Oppositions (distressing winds) we must meet

1. Betrayal by supposed friends – Matthew 10:21
2. Persecution by enemies – Matthew 5:11-12
3. Lying tongues which hurt you – Matthew 5:44
4. Financial backsets – Luke 12:15
5. Accident which brings injury – Philippians 4:11
6. Loss of health – 3 John 2
7. Disappointments – 1 Thessalonians 2:18
8. Death of a loved one – Job 1:21

Faith is sometimes lost when things go well

1. There is a danger of losing faith when things go well – Psalm 55:19
2. One of the advantages of good times can be forgetfulness – Luke 12:16-20
3. Another is pride in self-sufficiency – Proverbs 16:18