Peace Be Still

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)