Sermon: Some Wind of God’s Favor: Lifting You into a New Season

Bible Verse: “And He arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”  Mark 4:39

Introduction

Life is filled with storms—challenges, trials, and unexpected turbulence that threaten to overwhelm us. In Mark 4:39, Jesus demonstrates His authority over the storm, speaking peace into chaos. This miracle is not just about the disciples’ survival but a powerful lesson for us today: the same God who calmed the storm can bring stillness to our lives.

The wind in this passage symbolizes the forces that oppose our blessings—fear, doubt, adversity, and even the enemy’s attacks. Yet, Jesus shows us that His word has power over every storm. Just as the disciples needed faith to trust Him in the boat, we must believe that God can turn our struggles into stepping stones for greater blessings.

This sermon will explore three key truths from this passage:

1. The Storm Before the Blessing – Why God allows trials.
2. The Power of His Word – How faith in Jesus brings peace.
3. The Calm After the Storm – The blessings that follow obedience.

Through biblical and examples, we will see how God uses storms to strengthen us and position us for greater victories.

1. The Storm Before the Blessing.

Why God Allows Trials

Storms in life are not accidents. They are part of God’s plan to teach us important lessons. In Mark 4:35–41, Jesus took His disciples into a storm on purpose. He wanted to show them that He is stronger than any problem. Storms help us grow. They show us where we are weak and teach us to trust God more. Just like fire cleans gold, hard times clean our hearts from pride and selfishness (1 Peter 1:7).

The Bible says we should be happy when trials come (James 1:2–4). Not because suffering is fun, but because it makes us stronger, patient, and closer to God. For example, Paul, a follower of Jesus, had a big problem he called a “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7–10). God let him suffer to keep him humble. Paul learned, “When I am weak, God makes me strong.”

God also uses our storms to show His power to others. When Jesus healed a man born blind, He said, “This happened so people can see God’s work” (John 9:3). Our struggles are not just about us—they help others see how great God is. After the storm, Jesus’ disciples were amazed and said, “Even the wind and waves obey Him!” (Mark 4:41). When we trust God in our storms, people see His power too.

Biblical Example: Job’s Unshakable Faith

Job’s story (Job 1–42) teaches us about trusting God even when life hurts. Satan told God, “Job only loves You because You bless him. Hurt him, and he will hate You!” God allowed Satan to test Job.

Job lost everything—his animals, his children, and his health. His wife said, “Curse God and die!” His friends blamed him, saying, “You must have sinned!” But Job refused to give up. He said, “God gave me everything, and He can take it away. I will still praise Him” (Job 1:21).

Job asked God, “Why is this happening?” But God didn’t explain. Instead, He showed Job His power as Creator of the world. Job finally said, “I used to hear about You, but now I see You!” (Job 42:5). His suffering led him to know God deeply.

In the end, God gave Job twice as much as he lost. This wasn’t a reward—it was proof that God is faithful. Job’s story shows us that suffering isn’t always punishment. Sometimes, God uses pain to show His greatness and grow our faith.

Example: Joni Eareckson Tada

Joni Eareckson Tada is a modern example of trusting God in storms. At 17, she broke her neck in a diving accident and became paralyzed. She couldn’t move her arms or legs. She felt angry, sad, and even wanted to die. But in her pain, she found God’s love.

Joni learned to paint by holding a brush in her teeth. She wrote a book called Joni about her life, which was translated into many languages. She started Joni and Friends, a group that helps people with disabilities. She says, “God uses things He hates (like suffering) to do things He loves (like helping others).”

Joni’s wheelchair didn’t stop her. Instead, it became her platform to share hope. She says, “God doesn’t waste our pain. He uses it to help others.” Her storm taught her to depend on God every day. Now, she travels the world, telling people about Jesus.

Key Lessons:

1. Storms have a purpose. God uses them to teach us, grow our faith, and help others.
2. Trust God, even when it hurts. Like Job and Joni, we can choose to praise God in pain.
3. Your story can help others. God turns our struggles into tools to bless the world.

 Storms are not punishments but preparations. Like a farmer tilling soil before planting, God uses trials to uproot pride, fear, and self-reliance. Ask yourself: “What is God uprooting in me? How can this storm position me for future blessings?” The disciples’ terror in the boat was a setup for Jesus to display His power. Your storm is no different. The wind is not your enemy—it’s the breath of God shaking you awake to His presence.

2. The Power of His Word.

Faith in Action

Jesus’ command, “Peace, be still!” (Mark 4:39), is more than a miracle—it reveals the divine authority of His Word. As the incarnate “Word” (John 1:1), Jesus embodies God’s creative and redemptive power. When He speaks, chaos submits, demons flee, and the dead rise. This same power is available to believers who align their words with Scripture. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “The tongue has the power of life and death,” emphasizing that our words are not neutral. They shape our reality, either releasing faith or fear.

Faith-filled words are not magic spells but declarations of trust in God’s promises. For example, when we face fear, quoting “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7) shifts our focus from the storm to the Savior. Similarly, declaring “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1) redirects our hearts to God’s provision. These declarations are not denial of our struggles but defiance against them. Just as God spoke light into darkness at creation (Genesis 1:3), our words, rooted in His Word, invite His power into our circumstances.

The Bible is filled with examples of faith activated through speech. Joshua and Caleb’s report, “We can certainly take the land” (Numbers 13:30), stood in stark contrast to the other spies’ fear. Their words reflected trust in God’s promise, even when giants blocked their path. Likewise, the centurion in Matthew 8:5–13 understood the authority of Jesus’ Word, saying, “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” Jesus marveled at his faith, highlighting the connection between belief and divine action.

Practical Application:

1. Identify God’s promises. Study Scripture to find verses that speak to your situation (e.g., healing, provision, peace).
2. Speak them aloud daily. Faith grows when we hear ourselves declare truth (Romans 10:17).
3. Rebuke doubt. When fear arises, counter it with Scripture, as Jesus did against Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:1–11).

Biblical Example: Peter Walking on Water

The story of Peter walking on water (Matthew 14:22–33) is a masterclass in faith and human frailty. After feeding the 5,000, Jesus sent His disciples across the Sea of Galilee while He prayed. A storm arose, and in the “fourth watch” (3–6 a.m.), Jesus approached them, walking on water. Terrified, the disciples cried, “It’s a ghost!” But Jesus reassured them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid” (v. 27).

Peter’s response was bold: “Lord, if it’s You, tell me to come to You on the water” (v. 28). Jesus’ reply—“Come”—was an invitation to step into the impossible. Peter climbed out of the boat and walked toward Jesus, defying natural laws. But when he noticed the wind, fear replaced faith, and he began to sink. Jesus immediately grabbed him, saying, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (v. 31).

This story teaches three key lessons:

1. Faith requires action. Peter didn’t just admire Jesus—he stepped out. Likewise, faith without works is dead (James 2:17).
2. Focus determines outcomes. Peter walked on water while focused on Jesus but sank when distracted by the storm. Fixing our eyes on Christ (Hebrews 12:2) keeps us anchored.
3. Grace covers failure. Jesus didn’t let Peter drown. His rebuke was gentle, reminding us that even weak faith is met with divine rescue.

Peter’s story also highlights the disciples’ growth. Later, in Acts, these same men performed miracles and faced persecution with unshakable courage. Their journey began with small steps of obedience, like Peter’s risky leap from the boat.

Example: Corrie ten Boom in Ravensbrück

Corrie ten Boom’s life exemplifies the power of God’s Word in the darkest places. During World War II, she and her family hid Jews in their home, violating Nazi laws. When arrested in 1944, Corrie and her sister Betsie were sent to Ravensbrück, a concentration camp known for brutality.

Amid starvation, lice, and despair, the sisters clung to Scripture. They smuggled a tiny Bible into the camp, risking death to read it aloud in secret. Betsie insisted on thanking God for everything—even the fleas in their barracks. Later, they discovered the fleas kept guards away, allowing them to hold prayer meetings.

Corrie and Betsie focused on Psalm 91, which promises God’s protection: “You will not fear the terror of night… nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness” (v. 5–6). They preached forgiveness, even as guards beat prisoners. Betsie’s dying words were, “There is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still.”

After the war, Corrie traveled to 60 countries, sharing how God’s Word sustained her. In 1947, she faced a former Ravensbrück guard who asked for forgiveness. Though initially hesitant, she prayed, “Jesus, help me!” and forgave him—a miracle she attributed to God’s grace.

Lessons from Corrie’s Storm:

1. God’s Word is a weapon. Scripture sustained her mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
2. Forgiveness is freedom. Holding onto bitterness would have imprisoned her, but releasing it unleashed her ministry.
3. Suffering can birth purpose. Her pain became a platform to preach Christ globally.

Key Takeaways:

• Speak God’s Word boldly. It has power to calm storms inside and around you.
• Step out in faith. Like Peter, growth begins when we leave our “boats” of comfort.
• Trust God in darkness. Corrie’s story proves His light shines brightest in the bleakest places.

 Reflection: Activating Faith Through Declarations
What storms are you facing? Unemployment? Sickness? Broken relationships? Speak God’s Word over them. Declare: “By His stripes, I am healed” (Isaiah 53:5), “God supplies all my needs” (Philippians 4:19), or “No weapon formed against me will prosper” (Isaiah 54:17). Faith is not denial of the storm but defiance in the midst of it. Jesus didn’t ignore the storm—He confronted it. So must we.

3. The Calm After the Storm.

Why Storms Reveal God’s Power

When Jesus calmed the storm in Mark 4:35–41, the disciples weren’t just relieved—they were amazed. They asked, “Who is this? Even the wind and waves obey Him!” (v. 41). This miracle wasn’t just about stopping bad weather. It was a lesson about Jesus’ identity: He is the Creator, the King over all creation. Storms in our lives work the same way. They aren’t random. They are allowed by God to teach us that He is in control, even when life feels chaotic.

God uses trials to shift our focus from “How will I survive this?” to “Who is this God who rules over my storms?” For example, when the Israelites faced the Red Sea with Pharaoh’s army chasing them, Moses said, “Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13). The storm (the sea and the army) forced them to trust God’s power, not their own strength. After God parted the sea, they sang, “The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is His name!” (Exodus 15:3). Their fear turned to worship because the storm revealed God’s greatness.

Storms also prepare us for bigger assignments. Imagine a soldier in training: the drills are hard, but they build strength for battle. Similarly, trials “train” us to rely on God. The apostle Paul said, “We go through hard times to comfort others with the comfort God gives us” (2 Corinthians 1:4). Your storm isn’t just about you—it’s about how God will use your story to help others.

Key Lessons:

• Storms prove God is Lord over every problem.
• Trials train us to trust Him, not ourselves.
• Your pain can become someone else’s comfort.

 Biblical Example: Joseph’s Journey

Joseph’s life (Genesis 37–50) is a masterclass in how God turns storms into stepping stones. At 17, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery because they hated his dreams of greatness. But God was with him:

1. Slavery in Potiphar’s House: Though unjust, Joseph learned leadership skills managing Potiphar’s home. When Potiphar’s wife lied about him, Joseph stayed faithful to God, even when it cost him his freedom.
2. Prison: Joseph interpreted dreams for two prisoners. One was executed, the other (the cupbearer) forgot him for two years. But God used that delay to position Joseph before Pharaoh at the right time.
3. Power in Egypt: When Pharaoh had nightmares, the cupbearer remembered Joseph. Joseph interpreted the dreams, warning of famine. Pharaoh made him second-in-command, and Joseph saved Egypt—and his own family—from starvation.

When Joseph reunited with his brothers, he said, “You meant to harm me, but God meant it for good”(Genesis 50:20). His 13-year storm taught him that God’s plan is bigger than human evil. Joseph’s pain positioned him to save nations and reunite his family. His story shows that God doesn’t waste storms—He uses them to train us for destiny.

 Example: Nick Vujicic

Nick Vujicic was born in 1982 without arms or legs. As a child, he felt like a burden. Kids bullied him, and he asked God, “Why did You make me like this?” At 10, he tried to drown himself but stopped, thinking of his family’s pain.

His turning point came at 15 when he read John 9, where Jesus healed a man born blind. Jesus said, “This happened so God’s works could be displayed in him” (v. 3). Nick realized his disability wasn’t a mistake—it was a platform. He began speaking at his church, sharing how God gave him hope.

Today, Nick travels the world, preaching to millions. He surfs, swims, and even types with his toes. He says, “My lack of limbs is not a disability—it’s an opportunity to show God’s strength.” His ministry, Life Without Limbs, helps people find purpose in pain.

Lessons from Nick’s Storm:

• God uses our weaknesses to show His power (2 Corinthians 12:9).
• No storm is too big for God to redeem.
• Your greatest pain can become your purpose.

 Reflection: Stewarding the Calm
The disciples’ storm ended, but their journey wasn’t over. They still had to cross the sea. Likewise, after your breakthrough, steward the calm wisely. Use your testimony to strengthen others. Joseph saved his family. Malala changed education laws. What will your calm produce? Don’t waste your pain—redeem it.

Self-Examination for This Week

1. Trust Check: “Is Fear Louder Than Faith?”
   Reflect: Have I allowed anxiety to overshadow God’s promises?
   Encouragement: Beloved, God is not surprised by your storm. He’s in the boat with you! Even when you tremble, His grip on you never loosens (Isaiah 41:10). Instead of condemning yourself for doubt, whisper, “Jesus, I choose to trust You today.”Scripture Anchor: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You” (Psalm 56:3).

 

1. Word Audit: “What Am I Speaking Over My Storm?”
   Reflect: Are my words magnifying fear or faith?
   Encouragement: Your tongue is a rudder—it steers your heart (James 3:4-5). Replace “This is too hard” with “God is fighting for me” (Exodus 14:14). Every “I can’t” is an invitation for His “I AM.”
   Scripture Anchor: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).

1. Purpose Alignment: “Can I See God’s Hand in This Trial?”
   Reflect: Do I view this storm as purposeless or purposeful?
   Encouragement: God isn’t wasting your pain. Like a refiner’s fire, He’s purifying your faith to reflect His glory (Malachi 3:3). Ask Him: “What fruit will this season bear?” Trust that He’s working for you, not against you (Romans 8:28).
   Scripture Anchor: “He has made everything beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

1. Compassion Inventory: “Am I Isolating or Inviting Others In?”
   Reflect: Have I withdrawn in shame or shared my burden?
   Encouragement: Your vulnerability is a gift. By letting others see your storm, you give them permission to hope in theirs (2 Corinthians 1:4). You’re not meant to weather this alone—the Body of Christ is your lifeline.
   Scripture Anchor: “Carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2).

1. Gratitude Posture: “Am I Counting Blessings or Curses?”
   Reflect: Do I fixate on what’s wrong or what’s right?
   Encouragement: Gratitude is a weapon. Even in the storm, God’s goodness is present—a sunrise, a friend’s call, a moment of peace. Write down three “small wins” daily. Worship dismantles despair!
   Scripture Anchor: “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Focus for This Week

1. Daily Declaration: Start each morning by speaking Mark 4:39 aloud: “Peace, be still!” over your mind, relationships, and circumstances.
2. Storm Journaling: Keep a “faith log.” Record moments when God provided calm in past storms. Review it when doubt arises.
3. Obedient Action: Step out like Peter. Is God nudging you to forgive, serve, or take a risk? Do one thing this week that requires faith beyond your comfort zone.
4. Worship Warfare: Play worship music during stressful moments. Singing shifts focus from the storm to the Savior (Acts 16:25–26).
5. Community Anchor: Share your storm with a trusted believer. Let them pray with you and hold you accountable to God’s promises.

Prayer of Trust and Surrender/

Heavenly Father, Creator of the winds and waves, we come before You in awe of Your power and love. Thank You for being with us in every storm—for never leaving our side even when fear clouds our vision. Forgive us for the times we’ve doubted Your goodness, questioned Your plan, or let anxiety drown out Your voice. Today, we choose to fix our eyes on You, the Author and Perfecter of our faith.

Lord, just as You spoke “Peace, be still” over the raging sea, speak Your calm into our hearts. Still the chaos within us—the worries, the hurts, the unanswered questions. Help us trust that every trial You allow is a divine setup for a greater purpose, just as You used Joseph’s pain to save nations, Corrie ten Boom’s suffering to spread forgiveness, and Nick Vujicic’s struggles to inspire millions. Remind us that You are not just in the storm, You are over it.

Fill our mouths with Your Word, God. Let us declare Your promises with boldness, knowing that “no weapon formed against us will prosper” (Isaiah 54:17) and “all things work together for good” (Romans 8:28). Strengthen us to step out of the boat, like Peter, and walk in radical obedience. When the winds roar, anchor us in Your truth.Use our storms, Lord, to refine our faith and shine Your light to others. May our scars become testimonies, our pain a platform for Your glory. Teach us to see trials as tools in Your hands, shaping us into vessels of hope.

We surrender every fear, every doubt, every broken dream to You. You are the God who turns graves into gardens and crosses into crowns. We trust You, even now, to turn this wind into a witness. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Blessed week. God bless abundantly.