Summary: The presence of a storm doesn’t mean the absence of God. Instead, it’s an opportunity to see His power, peace, and providence in action.

PEACE IN THE STORM

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 4:39

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 26:3, John 14:27, Psalm 107:29, Philippians 4:6-7, Romans 8:28

INTRODUCTION:

Life is full of storms—unexpected trials, sudden troubles, and fierce battles that shake our faith. Storms can come in different forms: financial crises, family troubles, health challenges, or emotional distress. Even believers who walk closely with God are not exempted from life’s storms.

In Mark 4:39, we see Jesus stand in the midst of a raging storm and say, “Peace, be still.” This divine command calmed the storm instantly, revealing His authority and presence in turbulent times. Just like the disciples, many of us panic when the storm hits, forgetting that Jesus is in our boat.

Peace is not the absence of a storm, but the presence of Christ in the storm. The goal of this message is to encourage us to trust God during trying times and understand that His peace surpasses all understanding, even when everything seems out of control.

1. STORMS ARE A PART OF THE JOURNEY

No one is immune to life’s challenges, but storms do not mean God has abandoned you.

a) Even the Righteous Face Storms

(Psalm 34:19) – Many are the afflictions of the righteous.

b) Storms Often Come Suddenly

(Mark 4:37) – A great storm arose suddenly as they sailed.

c) Storms Test Our Faith and Focus

(James 1:2–3) – Trials produce patience and maturity.

d) Storms Reveal Our Dependence on God

(2 Corinthians 1:9) – That we should not trust in ourselves.

Biblical Example: Job faced intense personal storms but remained faithful and was later restored (Job 1–42).

2. JESUS IS PRESENT IN THE STORM

Though it may seem like God is silent, He is never absent.

a) His Presence is Our Assurance

(Hebrews 13:5) – I will never leave you nor forsake you.

b) He Understands Every Storm We Face

(Hebrews 4:15) – Touched with the feeling of our infirmities.

c) His Silence is Not His Absence

(Mark 4:38) – Jesus was sleeping, yet in the boat.

d) He Steps In Right on Time

(John 11:6) – Even when it seems delayed, He is on schedule.

Biblical Example: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were not alone in the fire; the fourth man showed up (Daniel 3:24–25).

3. GOD’S PEACE SURPASSES THE STORM’S POWER

The peace of God is not based on circumstances but on His character.

a) His Peace is Supernatural

(Philippians 4:7) – It passes all understanding.

b) Peace is a Promise from Jesus

(John 14:27) – My peace I give unto you.

c) Peace Comes by Trusting God’s Word

(Isaiah 26:3) – You will keep him in perfect peace.

d) Peace is a Fruit of the Spirit

(Galatians 5:22) – The fruit of the Spirit is peace.

Biblical Example: Paul demonstrated peace in prison, singing praises despite his chains (Acts 16:25).

4. SPEAK THE WORD OF PEACE IN FAITH

Believers carry the authority of Christ to speak peace into their storms.

a) Jesus Spoke Peace to the Wind and Waves

(Mark 4:39) – “Peace, be still” and there was calm.

b) God’s Word Has Power Over Nature and Circumstance

(Hebrews 4:12) – The Word of God is living and powerful.

c) Your Confession Matters in Crisis

(Proverbs 18:21) – Life and death are in the power of the tongue.

d) Faith-Filled Words Change Atmospheres

(Romans 10:17) – Faith comes by hearing the Word.

Biblical Example: Joshua commanded the sun to stand still, and God honoured his word (Joshua 10:12–14).

5. YOUR STORM SHALL END IN TESTIMONY

No storm lasts forever. With Jesus, you will come out stronger and better.

a) Every Storm Has an Expiry Date

(Ecclesiastes 3:1) – To everything, there is a season.

b) God Turns Storms into Stories of Victory

(Romans 8:28) – All things work together for good.

c) There is Glory After the Storm

(1 Peter 5:10) – After suffering, God will restore and strengthen.

d) Storms Prepare You for Greater Assignments

(Luke 22:31–32) – Peter was strengthened to strengthen others.

Biblical Example: After the flood, Noah received a fresh covenant and a new beginning (Genesis 9:11–13).

CONCLUSION:

The presence of a storm doesn’t mean the absence of God. Instead, it’s an opportunity to see His power, peace, and providence in action. No matter what the enemy sends your way, if Jesus is in your boat, you will not sink. Peace is not found in the absence of trouble but in the presence of the Prince of Peace.

Storms are temporary, but God’s peace is eternal. Trust Him through the wind and the waves, and you’ll experience His calm in the chaos.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, let Your peace rule over every storm in my life.

2.  Lord Jesus, arise and speak peace into every troubled area of my life.

3.  I silence every voice of fear and doubt by the authority of Christ.

4.  Let every storm sent to destroy me be turned into a testimony.

5.  Father, increase my faith to trust You even when I don’t understand.