BE STILL
In life, troubles, and challenges of all kinds will surge like a raging sea. All over the world and in all ages, we see and hear about people in extreme circumstances beyond their control. Some overcome their problems while others drown on the spot or in the course of looking for solutions to their problems. At times, our problems overwhelm us due to the choices we have made and the routes taken to solve them. Our ability to seek solutions to our problems is human, while the ability to find solutions from the right source is divine. Many of us are here because of a challenge we have faced, going to several places even where angels fear to tread, and yet solutions are not forthcoming. We don't ask God to direct our ways so that we shall not be overcome by evil.
What matters in life's challenges is having the privilege to be in the same boat with Christ. This is because with Him, our problems are settled. If you are in a different boat, you are certainly in an unfortunate state. The challenges will make your life so miserable for taking a different boat.
The question is, are you sailing on the same boat with Jesus Christ? You claim that you are in the same boat with Him, how strong is your faith? In time of crisis do you only hope in God?
I want to tell you that to be still does not merely refer to physical stillness, but rather a state of inner calm and tranquility. It encourages us to let go of our worries, anxieties, and burdens, and trust in the divine plan that is unfolding. It urges us to have faith in God's wisdom, guidance, and love, knowing that He is always there for us, even in the midst of life's storms.
To truly know that God is God is to recognize His
sovereignty, His power, and His all-encompassing presence. It is to acknowledge
that He is the creator of all things, the sustainer of life, and the ultimate
source of peace and fulfillment. Knowing God in this way invites us into a
relationship of trust, surrender, and awe.
In the book of Matthew 8:23-35, we see Jesus Christ crossing the lake with His disciples, and suddenly there was a great storm with waves breaking into their boat. This happened while Jesus was asleep.
Note: The disciples were in the same boat with Christ, yet there was a problem. If we feel like being Christian means the absence of trouble, we are mistaken. Also, the disciples sailing in the same boat with Christ were reprimanded for their little faith to exert their power over the raging sea.
If we are in the same boat with Christ, we don't need to fear evil. We see here that little faith breeds fear. As the storm surged, fear gripped the disciples. They went to meet with Christ where He was sleeping. The Bible says, "They woke Him up, and shouting, 'Lord, save us! We are going to drown.'" – Matthew 8:25.
A moment when we feel that our God is silent over our problems should be a reminder for us to rouse Him up, stir Him up to act. This could be in the form of singing songs, praising Him, making vows, sacrifices of worship, and prayers. There are things we can do to stir up our God to act, of which faith is the most fundamental aspect.
When the disciples felt that the fierce storm was beyond their control, they woke their master up. A master means someone who has knowledge of how to do things right. They woke Him up because they knew that nothing is too hard for Him to do.
After censuring His disciples, He stood up and rebuked the storm – wind and sea – with three words: "Peace, be still." The wind ceased and there was a great calm. – Mark 4:39.
Today, by the same power Jesus used to silence that
storm, I speak by the power of Holy Spirit – let the storm raging in your life,
family, business, and relationship be still in the name of Jesus – amen.
Now consider the following – what you should do for the storm in your life to be over.
1. Don't panic or fret but trust in the power of His
redemption – Exodus 14:13.
While the Israelites panicked because of the fear of Egyptian capturing them, Moses told them to stand still and watch the Lord rescue them today. And that the Egyptians they see today shall be no more. Don’t panic because of the problems you are facing today, tomorrow you will not see them again. Only be still and know that there is God – Psalm 46:10. Moses trusted in the Lord, and the storm was over. Mordechai trusted in the Lord. He did not panic when he discovered the evil plan of Haman that all the Jews would die. He trusted in the Lord and the Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name.” – Psalms 91:14. And we know that God reversed the evil conspiracy. Let that storm of conspiracy in your life be over.
In our own lives, we often face situations that seem
insurmountable or overwhelming. Whether it's a personal struggle, a difficult
decision, or a period of uncertainty, finding peace can feel elusive. However,
by trusting in God's redemption, we can find solace and hope.
Trusting in God's redemption means acknowledging that He
is in control and has a plan for our lives. It involves surrendering our fears,
doubts, and worries, and placing our faith in His unfailing love and
faithfulness. It requires us to let go of our own desires for control and
instead, lean on His guidance and provision.
When we choose to trust in His redemption, we can
experience true peace. We can find comfort in knowing that God is working all
things together for our good, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.
We can rest in the assurance that His plans are higher and greater than our
own, and that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Trusting in God's redemption also allows us to let go of
past mistakes and failures. It reminds us that no matter how broken or
imperfect we may feel, God's grace is sufficient to redeem and restore us. It
encourages us to turn to Him for forgiveness and healing, and to embrace the
freedom that comes from knowing we are forgiven and loved unconditionally.
In times of uncertainty, hardship, or doubt, let us
remember the message of Exodus 14:13 and apply it to our lives. Let us trust in
God's redemption, stand firm in our faith, and find peace in knowing that He is
with us every step of the way. Through this trust, we can experience the
transformative power of His love and find lasting peace in His presence.
2. Put your faith in action by calling only on the name
of God.
The disciples called on Jesus and they were saved. The
Bible says, "Call on me in the time of trouble and I will answer
you." – Psalm 91:15.
During trying times, it is essential to nurture your
relationship with God through prayer, meditation, and reflection. By seeking
His presence and surrendering your worries and fears, you open yourself up to
receiving His divine peace and strength. In the face of adversity, knowing that
there is a higher power who cares and is in control can bring immense comfort
and reassurance.
Faith in God can also provide hope, even when
circumstances seem bleak. Believing in His plan and understanding that
everything happens for a reason can help you find meaning in your struggles.
Through prayer, you can seek guidance and wisdom to navigate the challenges you
face, trusting that God will provide the strength and clarity needed to
overcome them.
Calling on God provides us with a source of hope and comfort that transcends our human limitations. In moments of despair, we can find strength in knowing that there is a loving and compassionate being who is always there to listen to our prayers and offer guidance. This connection with the divine can bring us a sense of peace and reassurance, even in the darkest of times.
3. Turn away from iniquity – repent.
The hand of God is not short or weak to deliver us, but our sin is putting asunder. If we want our storm to cease, we should get rid of our sins and leave all iniquity behind us. – Job 11:14.
Repentance is not simply feeling sorry for one's actions or regretting past mistakes; it is a transformative process that involves a sincere change of heart, mind, and behavior. In religious and spiritual contexts, repentance is often seen as a necessary step towards seeking forgiveness from a higher power and restoring one's relationship with the divine.
Repentance requires deep introspection and an honest
assessment of one's actions, motives, and intentions. It involves acknowledging
and taking responsibility for the wrongdoings committed, as well as a genuine
desire to make amends and turn away from harmful behaviors. It is a conscious
choice to abandon destructive patterns and embrace a new way of living in
alignment with higher principles and values.
Repentance is not a one-time event but an ongoing process
of self-reflection, growth, and renewal. It requires humility, vulnerability,
and a willingness to confront one's flaws and weaknesses. It is a personal
journey that requires courage and determination to confront the consequences of
one's actions and seek forgiveness from both a divine source and those who may
have been affected.
In understanding repentance, it is essential to recognize
that it goes beyond external actions or rituals. It is a deeply personal and
internal transformation that encompasses the mind, heart, and soul. Repentance
involves cultivating a genuine sense of remorse and a sincere desire for
change, leading to a profound shift in attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.
By understanding the concept of repentance and embracing
its transformative power, individuals can embark on a path of healing,
forgiveness, and divine deliverance. It opens the door to spiritual growth,
liberation from past mistakes, and a renewed connection with the divine.
Repentance is not a sign of weakness but a courageous act of seeking redemption
and embracing the possibility of a better, more purposeful life.
There are key actions that can guide one along this path of repentance.
A. Self-Reflection: Begin by introspecting and examining your thoughts, actions, and behaviors. Identify areas where you have fallen short and caused harm, both to yourself and others. This process requires honesty and humility, as it necessitates acknowledging your mistakes without justification or deflection.
B. Genuine Remorse: Repentance goes beyond mere regret; it involves feeling genuine remorse for the pain or hurt you have caused. This requires empathy and compassion towards those affected by your actions. Take time to understand the consequences of your behavior and the impact it has had on others.
C. Confession: Openly admitting your wrongdoings is a crucial step towards repentance. Confess your sins to a trusted spiritual mentor, clergy, or, if appropriate, those directly affected by your actions. This act of confession allows for accountability and helps in the process of healing and reconciliation.
D. Seeking Forgiveness: Approach those you have harmed with a sincere desire to seek forgiveness. Understand that forgiveness is not guaranteed, and it may take time for wounds to heal. Respect the boundaries and emotions of others while demonstrating your commitment to change through your actions.
E. Making Amends: Repentance requires active efforts to make amends for your past actions. This may involve restitution, repairing damaged relationships, or contributing positively to the community. Take responsibility for your behavior and demonstrate through concrete actions that you are committed to growth and change.
G. Continued Growth: Repentance is not a one-time
event but an ongoing process of self-improvement. Embrace a mindset of
continuous learning and personal development. Engage in spiritual practices,
seek guidance from mentors, and surround yourself with a supportive community
that encourages your growth.
Embarking on the path of repentance can be challenging, but it is a necessary step towards divine deliverance. By following these steps and committing to the journey, you open yourself to the transformative power of repentance and pave the way for a renewed spiritual connection and a path towards divine grace.
4. Pray for mercy and against an unbelieving heart – Mark
9:24.
In the biblical passage from Mark 9:24, we encounter a
powerful account of a father's plea for mercy and his struggle with unbelief.
This passage reveals the transformative power of prayer and the strength that
can be found in seeking mercy from a higher power.
Mark 9:24 introduces us to a desperate father who brings
his son to Jesus, seeking healing for the boy who was possessed by a spirit
that caused seizures and great suffering. The father's plea to Jesus is both
heartfelt and vulnerable, as he cries out, "I believe; help my
unbelief!"
This statement encapsulates the human experience of
grappling with doubts and uncertainties, even in the face of our faith. It
illustrates the Father's recognition of his own limitations and his sincere
desire for divine intervention to overcome his doubts and strengthen his
belief.
This passage resonates with many individuals today who
find themselves wrestling with their own doubts and struggles. It serves as a
source of inspiration, reminding us that it is okay to acknowledge our doubts
and seek help in overcoming them.
The power of prayer is emphasized in this passage, as the
father approaches Jesus with faith and humility, acknowledging his need for
divine intervention. In response to his plea, Jesus compassionately heals the
boy, demonstrating the transformative impact of seeking mercy and putting our
trust in God.
In summary,
• Embrace a sense of peace and surrender in your life to
Christ through the invitation to "Be still."
• Find solace in the truth that God is in control over
your life even amidst chaos.
• Actively seek moments of stillness and reflection as a
way to connect with God.
• Discover the power and healing that comes from
embracing stillness in a fast-paced world.
May the storm in your life be still in the name of Jesus.
Amen.
Prayer points
Prayer Point: Heavenly Father, in the midst of chaos and storms, grant me your peace that surpasses all understanding. Let your calming presence bring stillness to my troubled heart.
2. "The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent." - Exodus 14:14
Prayer Point: Lord, I surrender my worries and anxieties to you. Help me to trust that you are fighting my battles and grant me the ability to be still and silent in your presence.
3. "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" - Psalm 46:10
Prayer Point: Heavenly Father, teach me to be still before you and acknowledge your sovereignty. Help me understand that you are in control, and in you, I find true peace and exaltation.
4. "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7
Prayer Point: Lord, I seek your peace that goes beyond human comprehension. May it guard my heart and mind, providing me with tranquility and protection through Christ Jesus.
5. "In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety." - Psalm 4:8
Prayer Point: Heavenly Father, grant me peaceful rest, knowing that you are my protector. Help me to trust in your loving care and find safety and security in your presence.
6. "Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!" - Psalm 122:7
Prayer Point: Lord, I pray for peace and security to encompass my life. May your presence be my refuge and stronghold, guarding me against anxiety and fear.
7. "May the Lord bless his people with peace!" - Psalm 29:11
Prayer Point: Heavenly Father, I humbly ask for your blessings of peace to be poured upon me and your people. May we experience your tranquility and harmony in every aspect of our lives.
8. "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful." - Colossians 3:15
Prayer Point: Lord Jesus, let your peace reign in my heart and mind. Guide me to walk in unity and harmony with my fellow believers, and cultivate a spirit of gratitude for the peace you provide.
9. "For God is not a God of confusion but of peace." - 1 Corinthians 14:33
Prayer Point: Heavenly Father, I surrender my confusion and turmoil to you. Fill me with your peace that transcends earthly chaos, and grant me clarity and understanding through your divine guidance.
10. "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all." - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Prayer Point: Lord, I seek your peace in every season and circumstance. May your presence be with me always, comforting and guiding me with your perfect peace. Amen.
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