We are currently seeing many events that challenge our peace; weather related problems, rioting in major cities, a failure on the part of federal and local leadership to create security about the direction of the nation, a school system that seems intent on moving towards an unbiblical ideology that separates and creates problem. All these stir unrest in the general population and especially among believers. How are we to respond?

We can be sure that everything that can be shaken will be shaken. Our expectations of what we have or don’t have, what the future will be or won’t be, and what God is doing and what is not of Him are all questions we struggle with. In our own society and nation, some foundations are being tested while others seem to be crumbling. We are experiencing upheavals in all areas; health, politics, morality, personal freedom, global insecurity, economy, educational systems, and ecological problems. We are experiencing what appears to be our “new normal’ and there are many who now live with continual feelings of fear. Fear and misinformation seem to be the agenda for the times and in the midst of all this I am reminded of Jesus’ words to us, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

I am then reminded of two different times the disciples found themselves in a boat on the Sea of Galilee when a storm arose. These storms could be violent and dangerous.  On one occasion Jesus is asleep in the boat when the wind and waves grew violent and the disciples were afraid for their lives (Matthew 8:23-27). They found that Jesus with a word was able to still the storm. 

In Matthew 14:22-31, they found themselves in the middle of the sea when the waves and wind got violent and Jesus wasn’t with them. They were fearful and it got worse when they saw what they thought was a “ghost” walking on the water. It was Jesus coming out to them.  Again, with a word Jesus was able to calm the storm.

Whether we are aware of Jesus’ presence with us or not, He is there to carry us to either calm the storm or carry us through. The world is in trouble but the children of God are not. His presence assures us that no storm or any other threat can harm us. His assurance, “I am with you always, even to the end of the ages,” should be the source of our peace and security. The world is out of control, but be assured God is always in control.