Finding Peace in Life's Storms Through Faith
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound concept of the peace that surpasses all understanding, a peace that God offers us even amidst life's storms. We began by acknowledging the reality of absent fathers in our society and the comfort we find in God as our good Father. This peace is not contingent on external circumstances but is rooted in our relationship with God, who promises to provide for us and care for our needs. We prayed for those among us who are sick, asking for God's healing and strength, and for His peace to guide us through tumultuous times.
We delved into the story of the Shunammite woman from 2 Kings, who, despite experiencing the grievous loss of her son, was able to declare, "It is well with my soul." Her faith in God allowed her to find peace in the midst of her distress. This narrative challenges us to develop a faith that can say "it is well" even when life is difficult. We also reflected on the disciples' experience in the storm on the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus calmed the storm, teaching us that peace is possible even in the midst of chaos.
The Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians, written from prison, emphasizes joy and peace despite his dire circumstances. Paul encourages us to rejoice always and to let our gentleness be evident to all, reminding us that the Lord is near. He instructs us to avoid anxiety by presenting our requests to God through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving, promising that the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.
We concluded with the story of Horatio Spafford, who, after losing his daughters at sea, penned the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul." His story exemplifies the peace that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty, even in the face of unimaginable loss. As we navigate life's challenges, may we hold onto this peace and joy, knowing that God is with us and that His peace surpasses all understanding.
Key Takeaways:
- God as Our Good Father: In a world where many experience the absence of a father, God stands as the ultimate good Father, providing guidance, love, and peace. This relationship allows us to call Him "Abba, Father," a term of endearment and intimacy, reminding us of His constant presence and care in our lives. [00:10]
- Peace in the Storm: The story of the Shunammite woman and the disciples in the storm illustrates that true peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God. This peace enables us to declare "it is well" even when circumstances are dire, as we trust in God's control and His ability to calm the storms of life. [48:38]
- Joy Amidst Trials: Paul's exhortation to rejoice always, even from a prison cell, teaches us that Christian joy is independent of external circumstances. This joy, rooted in the presence of Christ, empowers us to face trials with a heart full of gratitude and trust in God's ultimate plan. [58:36]
- The Power of Prayer and Thanksgiving: By presenting our requests to God through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving, we invite His peace to guard our hearts and minds. This practice shifts our focus from anxiety about the future to trust in God's provision and timing. [01:26:52]
- The Assurance of God's Presence: The phrase "the Lord is at hand" serves as a powerful reminder that God's presence is near, providing comfort and peace. This assurance allows us to face life's uncertainties with confidence, knowing that God is with us and that His peace surpasses all understanding. [01:30:56]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:10] - God as Our Good Father
- [00:45] - Prayers for Healing and Peace
- [01:30] - The Peace That Surpasses Understanding
- [02:15] - The Shunammite Woman's Faith
- [03:00] - Peace in the Storm
- [03:45] - Joy Amidst Trials
- [04:30] - Paul's Exhortation to Rejoice
- [05:15] - The Power of Prayer and Thanksgiving
- [06:00] - The Assurance of God's Presence
- [06:45] - Horatio Spafford's Story
- [07:30] - It Is Well with My Soul
- [08:15] - Closing Prayer and Communion
- [09:00] - Easter Season Reminder
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. 2 Kings 4:8-37 (The story of the Shunammite woman)
2. Philippians 4:4-7 (Paul's exhortation to rejoice and be at peace)
3. John 14:27 (Jesus' promise of peace)
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Observation Questions:
1. In the story of the Shunammite woman, how did she respond to the loss of her son, and what does this reveal about her faith? [48:38]
2. According to Philippians 4:4-7, what are the steps Paul outlines for experiencing God's peace?
3. How does the sermon describe the peace that Jesus offers, and how is it different from worldly peace? [01:30:56]
4. What role does prayer and thanksgiving play in experiencing the peace of God, according to the sermon? [01:26:52]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the Shunammite woman's declaration "It is well" challenge our understanding of faith in the midst of personal tragedy? [48:38]
2. In Philippians 4:4-7, Paul writes about rejoicing always. How can this be possible in difficult circumstances, and what does it say about the nature of Christian joy?
3. The sermon mentions that peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God. How can this perspective change the way we approach life's challenges? [01:30:56]
4. How does the story of Horatio Spafford illustrate the concept of peace that surpasses all understanding? [01:39:13]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced peace in a difficult situation. What role did your faith play in that experience, and how can you apply that lesson to current challenges? [48:38]
2. Paul encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving. How can you incorporate more gratitude into your prayer life, especially when facing anxiety? [01:26:52]
3. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing God as our good Father. How can this understanding impact your relationship with God and your approach to prayer? [01:30:56]
4. Consider the storms you are currently facing in your life. How can you practice saying "it is well" with your soul, and what steps can you take to deepen your trust in God's sovereignty? [48:38]
5. The sermon discusses the joy that is independent of circumstances. Identify one area in your life where you struggle to find joy. What practical steps can you take to cultivate joy in that area? [58:36]
6. How can you support someone in your life who is going through a difficult time, using the peace and comfort you have received from God? [01:39:13]
7. Reflect on the phrase "the Lord is at hand." How can this assurance of God's presence influence your daily decisions and interactions with others? [01:30:56]
Devotional
Day 1: God as Our Ever-Present Father
In a world where many experience the absence of a father, God stands as the ultimate good Father, providing guidance, love, and peace. This relationship allows us to call Him "Abba, Father," a term of endearment and intimacy, reminding us of His constant presence and care in our lives. God’s fatherhood is not limited by human shortcomings; He is always present, always loving, and always ready to provide for our needs. This assurance of His presence brings comfort and peace, especially in times of loneliness or uncertainty. [00:10]
Psalm 68:5-6 (ESV): "Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land."
Reflection: In what ways can you embrace God as your Father today, especially in areas where you feel alone or unsupported?
Day 2: Peace Beyond Circumstances
The story of the Shunammite woman and the disciples in the storm illustrates that true peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God. This peace enables us to declare "it is well" even when circumstances are dire, as we trust in God's control and His ability to calm the storms of life. The Shunammite woman’s faith, even in the face of her son’s death, and the disciples’ experience with Jesus calming the storm, both highlight the profound peace that comes from trusting in God’s sovereignty. This peace is a gift that transcends our understanding and is available to us in every situation. [48:38]
Isaiah 26:3-4 (ESV): "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock."
Reflection: What storm in your life can you invite God into today, trusting Him to bring peace and calm?
Day 3: Joy in the Midst of Trials
Paul's exhortation to rejoice always, even from a prison cell, teaches us that Christian joy is independent of external circumstances. This joy, rooted in the presence of Christ, empowers us to face trials with a heart full of gratitude and trust in God's ultimate plan. Paul’s letter to the Philippians, written under dire circumstances, is a testament to the joy that comes from a deep relationship with Christ. This joy is not superficial but is a profound assurance that God is at work, even in the darkest times. [58:36]
Habakkuk 3:17-18 (ESV): "Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation."
Reflection: How can you cultivate a heart of joy and gratitude today, even in the face of challenges?
Day 4: The Transformative Power of Prayer and Thanksgiving
By presenting our requests to God through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving, we invite His peace to guard our hearts and minds. This practice shifts our focus from anxiety about the future to trust in God's provision and timing. Prayer and thanksgiving are powerful tools that transform our perspective, allowing us to see God’s hand at work in our lives. As we bring our concerns to Him, we are reminded of His faithfulness and are filled with His peace. [01:26:52]
Colossians 4:2 (ESV): "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving."
Reflection: What is one specific worry you can bring to God in prayer today, coupled with thanksgiving for His past faithfulness?
Day 5: The Assurance of God's Nearness
The phrase "the Lord is at hand" serves as a powerful reminder that God's presence is near, providing comfort and peace. This assurance allows us to face life's uncertainties with confidence, knowing that God is with us and that His peace surpasses all understanding. The nearness of God is a source of strength and courage, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of security and hope. His presence is a constant reminder that we are never alone, and His peace is always available to us. [01:30:56]
Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV): "The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing."
Reflection: How can you become more aware of God’s presence in your daily life, and how does this awareness change the way you approach your day?
Quotes
The Bible says, to as many as received him, to them gave he the power to become the sons of God. Are you a child of God this morning? Amen. And Paul says, and because we are children, God has sent the spirit of the son into our hearts so that we can cry, Abba, Father. That means we can call him Daddy. Amen. That means we can call him Daddy. And, you know, that's such a powerful thing when we consider it here today. [00:39:00] (25 seconds)
But the truth is, it's not easy to do that. You know, most people respond in the other way. And it's not easy to do that. But if someone who has faith and trust in God and knowing that God is in control can do that. But it's something that we have to practice and it's something that we have to develop in our lives. [00:47:29] (18 seconds)
You see, we never learn anything when it's too quiet. We learn things in times of distress and in times of difficulty, in times of hardship. I believe the disciples themselves were supposed to go through the storm. That's why Jesus was sleeping, right? He can sleep through the storm. What are you worried about? Why are you so concerned about this storm? [00:49:41] (22 seconds)
He's writing this letter from prison. He's in jail. He's facing execution, but yet he's writing a letter to these people, and he's telling them about rejoicing, about having peace in God. And I'm saying to myself, you know, that's such a paradox when you think about it here right now. To see Paul, he's in such a state, but he's telling these people, rejoice. Rejoice. Rejoice in the Lord always. [00:51:25] (22 seconds)
There was a little song that we used to sing when we were children, with Christ in my vessel, I can smile at the storm. How many of you remember that? Amen? With Christ in my vessel, I can smile at that storm and knowing that I can go through anything, knowing that I have God with me. So Jesus gives us his joy, and we need to have the joy of Christ. [00:54:33] (25 seconds)
The word joy that Jesus uses here is the word chara, and it means cheerfulness, calm delight. It means gladness. And Jesus spoke much of his joy that he wants to bring, that he has come to bring us. Now, he wants to pass this on to us, but I want you to understand something. Jesus is not giving us a kind of a ha-ha joy that, you know, we go out and we have fun and we, you know, and that's not what he's talking about. [00:55:33] (27 seconds)
But you should not allow anybody to take away that which Christ has given to you. In other words, you say, I'm giving you my joy. In this world, you're going to have trouble. You're going to find there are crazy people around. You're going to find there are difficult times to help you, but don't let that stop you from being joyful. [00:57:13] (16 seconds)
And God is not a genie. He comes to you, you rub the lamp, and he's going to give you three wishes. And immediately your three wishes are going to be fulfilled, right? And then some of you are so smart, you say, well, you know what, the first wish is, I'm going to wish for a thousand more wishes. So I'm going to keep the cycle going. I'm going to get all the prayers answered at the same time. [01:23:27] (18 seconds)
But the truth is, it adds to the full context of the passage. Because the reason why you can be anxious for nothing, and the reason why you can allow the peace of God that surpasses all the understanding, it's because the Lord is at hand. Do you understand that? Do you get that here today? And I hope that I'm getting it to you, because the thing is, the way that you have the peace of God in you is knowing that the Lord is at hand. [01:30:56] (25 seconds)
And the sea was about three miles deep at that point. And he would write later on to his sister. And he said, I do not think of our dear ones there because they're safely folded, the dear lambs. It was at that spot of the Atlantic Ocean where his daughters died. And Horatio Spafford penned the words to the hymn that we still sing today, It is well with my soul. It is well with my soul. [01:34:40] (23 seconds)
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