Finding Peace in the Presence of Jesus

Summary

Today, we gathered to remember that each of us is equipped by God to walk in power and authority, not because of our own qualifications, but because heaven itself stands behind us. Just as David faced Goliath with nothing but faith in the Lord, we too are called to stand before our giants and storms, knowing that God’s care, protection, and guidance are with us. The story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4 reminds us that even when chaos surrounds us and fear threatens to overwhelm, Jesus is present—sometimes seemingly silent, but always caring and always able to bring peace.

Peace, as we explored, is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Jesus in the midst of it. The disciples, though experienced fishermen, panicked in the storm, forgetting that the Prince of Peace was with them. We often do the same, questioning if God cares when life feels overwhelming. Yet, Jesus demonstrates that He is with us in every storm, able to calm the wind and waves, and even when He doesn’t remove the storm, He offers a peace that surpasses all understanding.

This peace is guarded by trust. When our minds are fixed on Jesus, when we trust Him even in uncertainty, He keeps us in perfect peace. The world’s peace is conditional, but the peace Jesus gives is constant, rooted in His unchanging presence. We must be vigilant, for the enemy seeks to fill our minds with lies and anxieties. By focusing on Jesus—His word, His promises, His presence—we silence those lies and receive His peace.

Peace flows from the Spirit, not from our circumstances. As we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, the fruit of peace grows in our lives. Like holding onto an anchor in a stormy sea, staying connected to Jesus keeps us steady. But this peace must be pursued; it requires action, a daily choice to seek Him, to turn from worry, and to let His Spirit push out fear and anxiety.

Finally, we are called to be peacemakers—in our homes, workplaces, and communities. The enemy of peace is worry, but when we cry out to God and trust Him, His peace will guard our hearts and minds. No matter the storm, Jesus is with us, and His peace is available to all who reach out to Him.

Key Takeaways

- Peace is the Presence of Jesus, Not the Absence of Trouble
True peace is not found in a life free from storms, but in the assurance that Jesus is with us in every trial. Even when it seems He is silent or distant, His presence is our anchor and our hope. Like David before Goliath or the disciples in the boat, victory and calm come from knowing who stands with us. [01:16:02]

- Trust Guards Our Peace
When we fix our minds on Jesus and trust Him, He keeps us in perfect peace, even when answers are unclear and pain is real. The world’s peace is fleeting and conditional, but God’s peace is steadfast, rooted in His faithfulness. Trust is the shield that keeps fear and anxiety at bay, allowing us to rest in His promises. [01:24:51]

- Focus Determines Our Experience of Peace
Peter walked on water as long as his eyes were on Jesus, but began to sink when he focused on the wind and waves. Our peace is determined by where we place our attention—on the chaos around us or on the One who calms the storm. By focusing on God’s word and presence, we find stability and courage to face whatever comes. [01:27:15]

- Peace Flows from the Spirit, Not Circumstance
The fruit of the Spirit includes peace, which means it is cultivated by staying connected to God, not by controlling our environment. Like holding onto an anchor in a storm, our connection to Jesus allows His peace to flow into our hearts, pushing out worry and fear. This peace is a gift, but it must be actively pursued and received daily. [01:31:35]

- We Are Called to Be Peacemakers
God’s desire is not just for us to experience peace, but to spread it wherever we go. Being a peacemaker means actively seeking peace, turning from evil, and building up others. Worry is the enemy of peace, but as we trust God and pursue peace, we become agents of His kingdom in our homes, workplaces, and communities. [01:34:33]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:08:54] - David and Kingdom Reality
[01:12:38] - The Disciples’ Storm and Our Doubts
[01:14:18] - Jesus Cares in Our Miserable Moments
[01:16:02] - Peace is the Presence of Jesus
[01:17:09] - Seeking God in the Middle of the Storm
[01:19:14] - Take Heart: God is Our Refuge
[01:20:56] - The World’s Peace vs. Jesus’ Peace
[01:23:10] - The Battle for Our Minds
[01:24:51] - Trusting God When Answers Don’t Come
[01:27:15] - Focus Determines Peace
[01:28:25] - Peace Flows from the Spirit
[01:30:30] - The Anchor in the Storm
[01:31:35] - Staying Connected to Jesus
[01:32:28] - Pursuing Peace Actively
[01:33:26] - Called to Be Peacemakers
[01:34:33] - The Challenge: Be a Peacemaker
[01:35:47] - Prayer for Peace
[01:45:46] - Blessing of Peace
[01:49:34] - Closing and Thanks
[01:52:38] - End

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Walking in Peace

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### Bible Reading

- Mark 4:35-41 (Jesus calms the storm)
- John 14:27 (“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you…”)
- Philippians 4:6-7 (“Do not be anxious about anything…”)

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### Observation Questions

1. In Mark 4:35-41, what was Jesus doing during the storm, and how did the disciples react to the situation?
[[01:12:38]]

2. According to John 14:27, how is the peace that Jesus gives different from the peace the world offers?
[[01:20:56]]

3. In Philippians 4:6-7, what are we told to do instead of being anxious, and what is the result of doing this?
[[01:28:25]]

4. The sermon mentioned that peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Jesus. What examples from the Bible or the sermon illustrate this truth?
[[01:16:02]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think the disciples, who were experienced fishermen, panicked during the storm even though Jesus was with them? What does this reveal about human nature and faith?
[[01:12:38]]

2. The sermon says, “Peace is guarded by trust.” How does trusting God protect our hearts and minds from fear and anxiety, according to Isaiah 26:3 and the sermon?
[[01:24:51]]

3. The peace Jesus gives is described as “constant” and “rooted in His unchanging presence.” How does this contrast with the world’s definition of peace, and why is this distinction important for believers?
[[01:20:56]]

4. The sermon challenges us to be peacemakers. What does it look like to actively pursue peace in our relationships, and why is worry described as the enemy of peace?
[[01:34:33]]

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### Application Questions

1. The disciples questioned if Jesus cared about them during the storm. Have you ever felt like God was silent or distant in your own “storm”? How did you respond, and what might you do differently now?
[[01:14:18]]

2. The sermon says, “Peace must be pursued; it requires action, a daily choice to seek Him.” What is one practical step you can take this week to seek God’s peace in the middle of your challenges?
[[01:32:28]]

3. When life feels overwhelming, what are some specific lies or anxious thoughts that tend to fill your mind? How can you intentionally shift your focus to Jesus and His promises instead?
[[01:23:10]]

4. The world’s peace is described as conditional, but Jesus’ peace is constant. Can you identify a situation where you relied on “worldly peace” and it failed? How can you lean into Jesus’ peace in a similar situation now?
[[01:20:56]]

5. The sermon uses the image of holding onto an anchor in a stormy sea. What or who is your “anchor” when things get tough? Is there something you need to let go of to hold more tightly to Jesus?
[[01:30:30]]

6. The call to be a peacemaker is practical and challenging. Is there a relationship or environment (home, work, community) where you sense God is calling you to bring peace? What is one action you can take this week to be a peacemaker there?
[[01:34:33]]

7. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to bring our anxieties to God in prayer. What is one worry you can commit to praying about daily this week, trusting God to guard your heart and mind with His peace?
[[01:28:25]]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to share prayer requests related to areas where they need God’s peace, and pray for one another to experience the peace of Jesus in every storm.

Devotional

Day 1: Peace Is Not the Absence of Trouble, But the Presence of Jesus

True peace is not found in a life free from storms, but in knowing that Jesus is with you in the midst of every trial. Even when chaos surrounds you and fear threatens to overwhelm, the presence of Jesus brings a calm that the world cannot offer. Like the disciples in the boat, you may sometimes wonder if God cares or if He is aware of your struggles, but He is always near, ready to speak peace into your situation. When you invite Jesus into your storm, you discover a peace that surpasses all understanding, a peace that remains even when the waves are high and the winds are strong. [01:14:18]

Mark 4:35-41 (NKJV)
On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side.” Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!”

Reflection: When you face a storm in your life, how can you intentionally invite Jesus into your situation and trust Him to bring peace, even if the circumstances don’t immediately change?


Day 2: Peace Is Guarded by Trust

Peace flourishes when you choose to trust God, keeping your mind and heart focused on Him rather than on your troubles. The world offers a fragile, conditional peace, but Jesus gives a peace that is constant and unshakable, regardless of your circumstances. When you fix your thoughts on God and depend on Him, He surrounds you with perfect peace, even when life feels overwhelming or uncertain. Trust is the key that unlocks this peace; as you surrender your fears and anxieties to Him, He steadies your heart and mind, giving you the strength to endure. [01:24:51]

Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)
You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.

Reflection: What is one specific worry or fear you can surrender to God today, choosing to trust Him and keep your mind focused on His promises?


Day 3: Focus Determines Peace

Where you place your focus determines whether you walk in peace or sink in fear. Like Peter walking on water, as long as your eyes are fixed on Jesus, you can rise above the storms; but when you focus on the wind and waves, anxiety and doubt take over. God calls you to focus on His word, His promises, and His presence, especially when everything around you feels uncertain. By depending on Him and shifting your attention away from your troubles, you allow His peace to fill your heart and guide your steps, no matter how turbulent life becomes. [01:27:15]

Matthew 14:25-31 (NKJV)
Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Reflection: What is one practical way you can shift your focus from your problems to Jesus today, allowing His peace to steady you?


Day 4: Peace Flows from the Spirit, Not Circumstance

Lasting peace is not the result of perfect circumstances, but the fruit of the Holy Spirit at work within you. When you allow the Spirit to guide your actions and thoughts, He produces peace that transcends understanding, even in the midst of anxiety, uncertainty, or pain. This peace is cultivated through prayer, thanksgiving, and a daily connection to God, who anchors you securely no matter how fierce the storm. As you hold on to Him, His peace flows into every area of your life, pushing out worry and fear, and filling you with hope and assurance. [01:28:25]

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Reflection: How can you invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with peace today, especially in an area where you feel anxious or unsettled?


Day 5: Pursue Peace and Be a Peacemaker

God calls you not only to seek peace for yourself but also to actively pursue it and become a peacemaker in your relationships and community. This requires intentional action—turning away from negativity, seeking reconciliation, and allowing the peace of Christ to rule in your heart. As you cultivate peace within, you are empowered to bring peace to others, building up those around you and reflecting the heart of God. Being a peacemaker is a daily challenge and a calling to live out the peace you have received, making a difference wherever you go. [01:34:33]

Matthew 5:9 (NKJV)
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Reflection: Who is one person or situation where you can intentionally bring peace today, and what step can you take to be a peacemaker in that context?

Quotes

this passage shows us that jesus can remove a storm physical storms emotional mental storms and when he removed that there was peace among the disciples with david he removed the giant and there was peace among the israelite army but there are times when we still can we still can have peace even in the middle of the storm even in the middle of the storm a peace that surpasses all understanding for jesus the prince of peace lives in us the prince of peace lives in you and in me [01:15:00] (61 seconds) Edit Clip

the peace that the world gives is conditional it's only when everything is steady and going well but the peace that jesus offers is not uncertain it is not based on your situation it is constant it is always available we only need to lean into him and he will give you peace [01:21:16] (40 seconds) Edit Clip

so we need to trust Him Because without trust There is fear There is uncertainty But if we put our trust in Him If we put our trust in God That trust will give you peace When we can't find the answer When everything seems unclear When the pain is unbearable Put your trust in Him Put your trust in Him And He will give you peace [01:24:51] (50 seconds) Edit Clip

When Peter Was focused on Jesus He walked on water When his focus Changed He saw the wind And he began To sink Focus Determines Peace So we need to focus On Jesus Instead of all the Terrible things That's happening Around us Focus on his word Focus on his promises Focus on his presence In your life Depend on him Trust in him And he will give you Perfect peace [01:26:48] (56 seconds) Edit Clip

Peace flows From the spirit Not circumstance Philippians 4 6 -7 Be anxious For nothing But in everything By prayer And supplication With thanksgiving Let your requests Be made known To God And the peace Of God Which surpasses All understanding Will guard your Hearts and minds Through Christ Jesus [01:28:19] (25 seconds) Edit Clip

For He is the anchor that we can hold on to in a stormy world. He keeps us safe. Our hearts, our minds, our souls, He guides us so we do not sink. Peace comes from the one who we are connected to. As long as we are connected to Him, as long as we are holding on to Him, His love will flow. His grace will flow. His favor will flow. His peace will flow. [01:31:01] (58 seconds) Edit Clip

We have to seek peace and pursue it. We have to actively pursue it. You have to cultivate daily. An action is required from you. You have to move. You have to run. You have to walk. You have to lean into Him. You have to shift your focus. You have to reach out to Him. You have to move. You have to move. You have to move. You have to move. You have to move. You must turn away from certain things to achieve it. Seek peace and let the fruit of the Spirit flow through us and let it push out worry, anxiety, fear. in our hearts. [01:32:15] (69 seconds) Edit Clip

Matthew 5 .9. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. And that is our challenge this week. Be a peacemaker. Be a peacemaker. In your home, in your workplace, in your neighborhood, in your community, in your cell group, your circle of friends, your church. Be a peacemaker. [01:34:14] (41 seconds) Edit Clip