PEACE BE STILL!
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Mark 4:39 – “And He arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”
Supporting Texts: John 14:27, Philippians 4:6-7, Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 46:10, Matthew 11:28-30
INTRODUCTION
Life is full of storms—challenges, trials, and uncertainties that shake the very foundation of our faith. Just like the disciples faced a raging storm while sailing with Jesus, many believers today encounter storms in different aspects of life—spiritual, financial, emotional, and even health-related. In Mark 4:39, Jesus demonstrated His authority over the storm by commanding, “Peace, be still!” This reminds us that no matter how fierce the storm, Jesus has the power to calm it.
The world is filled with chaos, anxiety, and fear. Many are troubled by economic instability, health crises, personal struggles, and spiritual battles. However, God’s promise of peace is available to all who trust in Him. Jesus assures us in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
This sermon will explore the different storms of life, how to find peace in the midst of them, and how to walk in divine calmness through faith in Christ.
1. UNDERSTANDING THE STORMS OF LIFE
Storms in life come in different forms, and each has the potential to shake our faith.
a) Physical Storms – Challenges in Health and Finances (Job 2:7)
Sickness, financial hardship, and job loss can create anxiety and distress, making one feel overwhelmed.
b) Emotional Storms – Anxiety, Fear, and Depression (Psalm 42:11)
Many battle with inner struggles, emotional breakdowns, and overwhelming sadness.
c) Relational Storms – Conflicts and Betrayals (Genesis 37:23-28)
Family disputes, broken friendships, and betrayals can bring pain and heartbreak.
d) Spiritual Storms – Attacks from the Enemy (Ephesians 6:12)
Satanic oppression, temptations, and spiritual dryness can cause frustration and discouragement.
e) Biblical Example: The disciples faced a literal storm that threatened to sink their boat, but Jesus was with them and calmed the storm (Mark 4:35-41).
2. WHY DO STORMS COME?
Storms do not come without reason; they often serve a purpose in our spiritual journey.
a) To Test and Strengthen Our Faith (James 1:2-3)
Trials refine our trust in God and prepare us for greater victories.
b) As a Result of Disobedience or Wrong Choices (Jonah 1:3-4)
Some storms arise when we step out of God’s will, just as Jonah experienced when he ran from God’s assignment.
c) To Glorify God Through Divine Intervention (John 9:3)
Some storms occur so that God’s power may be revealed in our lives.
d) Because We Live in a Fallen World (John 16:33)
Jesus warned that we would face trouble in this world, but He also promised peace in Him.
e) Biblical Example: Job faced unimaginable storms of loss, sickness, and suffering, yet his faith in God remained strong (Job 1:13-22).
3. HOW TO FIND PEACE IN THE MIDST OF THE STORM
God’s peace is available even in the most turbulent times, but we must position ourselves to receive it.
a) Fix Your Eyes on Jesus, Not the Storm (Matthew 14:29-30)
Peter walked on water until he focused on the wind; keeping our focus on Christ keeps us steady.
b) Speak the Word of God Over the Situation (Isaiah 55:11)
Jesus calmed the storm by speaking to it. We must declare God’s promises over our lives.
c) Pray and Cast Your Cares on the Lord (Philippians 4:6-7)
Anxiety disappears when we bring our burdens to God in prayer.
d) Trust in God’s Perfect Timing (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
God knows when and how to bring deliverance; our role is to trust Him.
e) Biblical Example: Paul and Silas were imprisoned and in chains, yet they worshipped God, and their deliverance came supernaturally (Acts 16:25-26).
4. WALKING IN DIVINE PEACE DAILY
God’s peace is not meant for a moment; it should be a daily experience in our lives.
a) Meditate on God’s Word Daily (Psalm 119:165)
Those who keep their minds on God’s Word enjoy great peace.
b) Live a Life of Worship and Thanksgiving (Colossians 3:15-16)
A heart of gratitude dispels fear and anxiety.
c) Remain in Fellowship with the Holy Spirit (John 16:13)
The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth and strengthens our hearts.
d) Walk in Faith, Not Fear (2 Timothy 1:7)
Fear cripples, but faith in God releases His peace.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel remained peaceful even in the lions' den because he trusted in God (Daniel 6:16-22).
5. COMMANDING PEACE OVER EVERY STORM
Just as Jesus spoke peace to the storm, we too can declare calmness over our situations.
a) Take Authority Over the Enemy’s Attacks (Luke 10:19)
Believers have the power to rebuke the devil’s schemes.
b) Declare God’s Promises with Boldness (Job 22:28)
What we decree in faith shall be established.
c) Surround Yourself with Faith-Building People (Proverbs 27:17)
Being around people who speak faith rather than fear strengthens our trust in God.
d) Refuse to Be Controlled by Circumstances (Isaiah 41:10)
No matter what happens, we must stand firm in God’s peace.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus, even when facing the cross, remained at peace, knowing that God’s will would prevail (Luke 22:42).
CONCLUSION
Life’s storms are inevitable, but they do not have to destroy us. Jesus is the Prince of Peace, and when we allow Him to take control, we will experience a calm that surpasses human understanding. The key to overcoming storms is trust—knowing that Jesus is in the boat with us, and He has the power to say, “Peace, be still!”
No matter what storm you are facing today, the Lord is saying to you, “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). When you trust in Him, His peace will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
PRAYER POINTS
- Lord, speak peace into every storm in my life today.
- I reject every spirit of fear, anxiety, and confusion in Jesus’ name.
- Father, fill my heart with divine peace that surpasses all understanding.
- I declare calmness over my family, business, and ministry.
- Lord, help me to trust You even when I cannot see the way forward.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
- I decree that every storm in your life is silenced in the name of Jesus!
- You will walk in supernatural peace, free from anxiety and fear.
- No situation will be able to shake your faith, for God is your anchor.
- Every confusion in your life turns into divine clarity and direction.
- The peace of God will rule your heart, and you shall be a testimony of God’s calmness in troubled times.
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