Sunday, April 13, 2025

 

"Stillness in the Storm: Finding Peace in God’s Sovereignty"

Text: "You stilled the roaring of the seas, the pounding of their waves, and the tumult of the nations." (Psalm 65:7)

Introduction: A World in Chaos

We live in a world that feels like it is coming apart at the seams. Every day, the news brings fresh reports of war, political unrest, economic instability, natural disasters, and personal crises. Fear and anxiety grip the hearts of many. Uncertainty looms over our future.

Yet, in the midst of this chaos, the Word of God speaks with unwavering clarity: "You stilled the roaring of the seas… and the tumult of the nations." The same God who calmed the storm on Galilee is still sovereign over the storms of our lives and our world today.

I. The Reality of Chaos

Before we can appreciate God’s stillness, we must acknowledge the chaos:

A. The Roaring Seas – Natural and Personal Storms

  • Hurricanes, earthquakes, pandemics—creation itself groans under the weight of sin (Romans 8:22).

  • Personal storms: sickness, grief, financial struggles, broken relationships.

B. The Tumult of Nations – Global Unrest

  • Wars (Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Hamas, Sudan, etc.).

  • Political divisions, social upheaval, moral decay.

  • Economic instability, inflation, job insecurity.

C. The Inner Turmoil – Fear, Anxiety, and Despair

Many are drowning in worry, depression, and hopelessness. The noise of the world is deafening.

But Psalm 65:7 reminds us: God stills the chaos.

II. God’s Power Over Chaos

The Bible repeatedly shows God bringing order out of chaos:

A. At Creation (Genesis 1:2)

  • The earth was "formless and void," but the Spirit of God hovered, bringing order.

  • God speaks, and chaos obeys.

B. In the Storm (Mark 4:35-41)

  • Jesus sleeps in the boat while the disciples panic.

  • With a word, He rebukes the wind and waves: "Peace! Be still!"

C. Over Nations (Psalm 46:6, 10)

  • "Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; He lifts His voice, the earth melts."

  • "Be still and know that I am God."

God is not surprised by chaos—He reigns over it.

III. How Do We Respond to Chaos?

In a world spinning out of control, how do we find peace?

A. Remember Who God Is

  • He is sovereign (Daniel 4:35).

  • He is good (Psalm 145:9).

  • He is faithful (Lamentations 3:22-23).

B. Trust His Promises

  • "I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

  • "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." (Exodus 14:14)

C. Anchor Yourself in Worship

  • Worship shifts our focus from the storm to the Storm-Stiller.

  • Psalm 65 begins with praise: "Praise awaits You, O God, in Zion."

D. Be a Peacemaker in a Chaotic World

  • Jesus calls us to be light in darkness (Matthew 5:14-16).

  • In a world of division, we must be agents of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).

IV. The Ultimate Answer: Christ, Our Peace

The greatest chaos is not outside of us—it’s within. Sin separates us from God, leaving us restless. But Jesus came to bring true peace:

  • "He Himself is our peace." (Ephesians 2:14)

  • "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you." (John 14:27)

The cross was the greatest storm—God’s wrath poured out on sin—yet through it, Jesus made a way for us to be reconciled to God.

Conclusion: The Coming Stillness

One day, the chaos will end. Revelation 21:1-4 promises a new heaven and earth where:

  • There will be no more sea (symbol of chaos).

  • No more tears, pain, or death.

  • God will dwell with His people forever.

Until then, we hold onto this truth: The same God who stilled the seas still rules the nations and holds our lives in His hands.

Final Challenge:

  1. Be still before God today—spend time in prayer, casting your anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:7).

  2. Worship in the storm—choose faith over fear.

  3. Share His peace—be a calming presence in a chaotic world.

Closing Prayer:
"Father, in a world of noise and fear, remind us that You are still in control. Speak ‘Peace’ over our hearts, our homes, and our nations. Help us to trust You fully. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

No comments:

Post a Comment