HAVE PEACE, EVEN DURING THE STORM

We are called to peace. Can we however, enjoy it during our earthly stay, when there are so many distractions, worries, frustrations and anxiety?

In Mark 4:35-41, Jesus and his disciples encountered a turbulent storm at sea. To the surprise of the disciples Jesus was still asleep in the storm and they had to wake him up.(v. 38,Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?) Jesus seemed not worried even in the situation, as he rebuked the wind and later the disciples (v. 40, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”) 

Fear expels peace from your life. Faith dispels fear, according to the word above. Faith is the reaction of the human spirit to the word of God, and Faith comes by hearing, and hearing the word (message) of God.  Further, you can’t please God without faith. So it’s logical to conclude that without hearing the word of God you will always be afraid and you can’t please God. A Biblical demonstration of the same is when Jesus visited the sisters Martha and Mary after the death of their brother, Lazarus. Martha was frustrated and tried to vent her frustration at her sister Mary, who was then listening to the gospel at the Lord’s feet, while she was making all other preparations all by herself. However, her frustrations seemingly were other deep seated issues in her heart. Had she been asked, maybe her response would have been “It’s a long story”. Jesus realized this and told her plainly (Luke 10:41..”Martha, Martha, You are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” ) Mary had chosen the WORD OF GOD- The only thing that is needed, according to Jesus. We need to embrace it too.

Peter’s time in prison is another perfect example of how we can have peace during troubling times. The squads of soldiers would have been overwhelming for Peter, but even in that situation, he had peace.Acts 12:4,6.. After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.  The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. How would one afford sleep during such a time? The peace of God!

Our Lord Jesus  Christ knows the conditions in the earth and the resultant worries that could stem from the same. Just before he ascended to heaven he advised the disciples; John 16:33…I have told you these things, so that in me you will have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Having peace during hard and turbulent times can only be motivated by the knowledge that a power superior to the situation, in our case God, is in total control of the situation, and that this has not got him off-guard. Paul speaks to the Roman of this situation in Romans 8:28…..And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called to his purpose.

Do you love God? If Yes, then you qualify for the above privilege. He explains that God foreknew us, predestined us, called us, and justified us for the ultimate goal to Glorify us, so that we might be conformed to the likeness of Christ himself, so that he becomes a firstborn among many. This is because through salvation we become children of the Most High God, like Christ himself.

Knowledge of the word of God dispels the worries of the world, because we understand our position, privileges, rights and promises as children of God but above all we know he is in control and he causes everything work for our good.

Memory Verses

John 14:27…Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Philippians 4:6-7…Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication (petition), with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

CONFESSION

Thank you Everlasting Father for granting your peace through your word. I surrender my fears, anxiety and worries to you for I know that you are in control. May your word dwell richly in my heart and dispel all my worries through the revelations of your word.  May you always remind me of your love, mercy and compassion through your word, encourage me when I am discouraged and strengthen me when I am weak. In Jesus Name! Amen!