The peace of God can overcome any storm

In the Bible there is a story about a storm that I would like to share with you. The story is found in Matthew 28:23-27.

Jesus gets into a boat and His disciples follow Him. And suddenly a great storm arises on the sea. This storm is a deadly one. The disciples fear for their lives. Jesus was sleeping during this storm. The disciples woke him saying, “Lord Save Us! We are perishing!”

Isn’t that how it happens sometimes. We are following Jesus, we get into the boat with Him and suddenly a storm hits. We didn’t do anything to cause it, the storm just happens. Suddenly, out of nowhere. 

When Jesus woke up He asked them two specific questions, why are you afraid and where is your faith? It is easy for us to answer these questions when we are looking in the natural. It is obvious that I am fearful because of the storm. It is real; It is dangerous; many have died in similar situations. My faith is hanging on my experience and knowledge. All arrows point toward eminent disaster. Jesus is teaching His disciples a very important lesson here. When the storm hits we should ask ourselves why are we afraid and where is our faith?

Fear is a powerful force and God instructs us that perfect love removes all fear. Jesus loves us with perfect love. He sings and dances over us with joy. We are loved and accepted by Him. My fear that I am abandoned or left to die is unfounded because I am loved by a God who said He would never leave me or abandon me. My soul has no room for fear because His love overflows in me. 

The second question is about where we place our faith. This is very important because if my faith is in temporal earthly things of this world then my faith is misplaced, and when temporal things get taken or moved my faith is shaken. Our faith should be steadfast on the one who cannot lie and who is faithful and just! Jesus spoke to the storm and it immediately retreated. Peace filled the storm and the storm could not overcome it. Who is this who can calm the storm? Who is this whom the waves and wind obey? His name is Jesus!

I would like to leave you with a blessing for you and your family and loved ones; a blessing over this community and all those around us!

‘May the Lord bless you

and protect you.

May the Lord smile on you

and be gracious to you.

May the Lord show you his favor

and give you his peace.’

Numbers 6:24-26

Pastor Wesley Ribeiro ministers at New Life Church.