Jesus Calms the Storm
“Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!’ He replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, ‘What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!’”
Matthew 8:23–27 (NIV)
This is one of those powerful red-letter moments. Even though it’s just a few short lines, it’s so important because it shows us Jesus’ strength, His calm, and His care for His friends. It’s also a fun one to role play with your little ones! Here is How:
Engage:
Step into the story by role playing:
Pretend to sleep: Curl up in the couch (your boat) like the disciples and close your eyes.
Stormy waves: Make big wind noises and wave your hands like the stormy sea.
Wake Jesus up: Pretend to shake Him and say, “Save us! We are going to drown!”
Jesus speaks: Stand up and say, “Why are you afraid? Have faith!” Then shout, “Quiet! Be still!”
Calm: Take a deep breath. Feel the peace. How does your heart feel now?
Apply: How He calms our storm
Jesus can calm storms in our hearts too. Discuss simple, practical ways to let Him bring peace:
Knowing: He’s always with us. Jesus is in our “boat” with us, even when we feel scared. Knowing He’s near makes our hearts feel safe.
Praying: Ask him to quiet your thoughts and still your heart when you feel scared or worried
Sharing & Caring: Sometimes Jesus calms our hearts by giving us friends and family who help, encourage, and comfort us.
Trusting Him: Even if the storm isn’t gone yet, trusting Jesus gives our hearts courage, hope, and peace.
Ask your little one: “Can you remember a time Jesus helped you feel brave or peaceful?”
Repeat & Reinforce:
Throughout the week, help your child remember this story in fun ways:
Story Retell: Have your child tell the story to a stuffed animal, sibling, or friend, emphasizing how Jesus calms the storm.
Calm Breaths Game: Practice taking deep breaths and whispering “Jesus, be still” whenever they feel frustrated or anxious.
Singing: Sing or listen to songs about Jesus’ power over storms.
Closing Thought:
Even when things feel scary or out of control, Jesus’ words are enough to bring peace and calm. Every time we remember Him and follow His voice, He helps us stand strong, just like He calmed the storm for His friends.
To bring this story to life in a simple, meaningful way:
• Enjoy a short clip of Jesus calming the storm, perfect for helping little hearts picture the moment.
• And if you’d like an extra hands-on activity, grab the activity sheet designed to reinforce the lesson through play and creativity.
Love,
Gi 🤍
Jesus Calms the Storm Activity Sheet
This 2-page activity sheet brings the story of Jesus calming the storm to life! Page 1 helps little ones reflect with a ‘circle the face’ emotion activity, a ‘draw who is in your boat’ prompt, and a simple prayer. Page 2 is a fun alphabet maze guiding the boat to safe waters, reinforcing letters while exploring the story.
The Story of Jesus Calming the Storm - Jesus' MOST AMAZING Miracles, Pt. 1 | Bible Stories for Kids
