It Is Well With My Soul

"It Is Well with My Soul"

Introduction

There are moments in life when storms rage, when pain and uncertainty threaten our peace. Yet, there is a profound declaration that echoes through the ages: "It is well with my soul." This phrase, immortalized by Horatio Spafford after personal tragedy, is not merely a hymn lyric—it is a testimony of faith that transcends circumstances.

Imagine a ship caught in a violent storm. The passengers are terrified, but one person stands on deck, calm and unshaken. When asked why, he replies, "I trust the captain." Today, we will explore how, despite life's storms, we can say with confidence, "It is well with my soul," because we trust the Captain of our salvation.

Point 1: True peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ.

One of the most vivid stories in the Bible that illustrates the foundation of peace through faith in Christ is when Jesus calms the storm on the Sea of Galilee. This account is found in Mark 4:35–41, as well as in Matthew 8:23–27 and Luke 8:22–25.

The Story

Jesus and His disciples set out across the Sea of Galilee. As they sailed, a fierce storm arose. Waves broke over the boat, and the disciples—many of whom were experienced fishermen—were terrified. Meanwhile, Jesus was asleep on a cushion in the stern. In panic, the disciples woke Him, crying, "Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?"

Jesus got up, rebuked the wind, and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Instantly, the wind died down and there was a great calm. He then asked His disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"

Theological Point

This story perfectly embodies the truth that peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ. The storm raged around the disciples, but Jesus’ presence brought calm—not just to the sea, but to their hearts. The disciples’ peace was restored not when the storm ceased, but when they realized who was with them in the boat.

Illustration Connection

Just as a child sleeps peacefully knowing her parent is near, the disciples could have rested in the knowledge that Jesus—the Lord of all creation—was with them. Their fear came from focusing on the storm, rather than trusting the One who was in control.

Application

When life’s storms threaten to overwhelm you, remember who is in your boat.

True peace comes from trusting in Christ’s presence, not in the absence of trouble.

Ask yourself: In the chaos of your life, are you looking at the waves, or are you trusting the One who commands the wind and the sea?

Supporting Scripture

• 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."

• Mark 4:39–40 — "He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down, and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, 'Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?'"

When we anchor our faith in Christ, we experience a peace that surpasses understanding, even when chaos surrounds us. Ask yourself: Is your peace dependent on circumstances, or on Christ?

Point 2: Surrendering to God’s will brings freedom from anxiety.

A powerful biblical example of surrendering to God’s will is found in the story of Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, just before His arrest and crucifixion. This moment reveals the depth of Jesus’ humanity and His willingness to let go and trust the Father, even in the face of overwhelming anxiety.

The Story

After the Last Supper, Jesus took His disciples to Gethsemane. He confided in Peter, James, and John that His soul was "overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death." Moving a little farther, Jesus fell to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will" (Matthew 26:39).

Jesus prayed this prayer three times, each time surrendering His will to the Father’s plan. Though deeply distressed and in agony, He ultimately accepted God’s will. After praying, Jesus rose with renewed strength and peace, ready to face the cross.

Theological Point

This story perfectly illustrates that surrendering to God’s will brings freedom from anxiety. Even Jesus, in His humanity, felt the weight of fear and sorrow. Yet, through prayer and submission, He found the peace and resolve to fulfill His purpose.

Illustration Connection

Just as a person is relieved when laying down a heavy backpack, Jesus experienced relief and strength after surrendering His burden to the Father. He did not avoid the trial, but He faced it with divine peace.