Never Alone: Embracing God's Promise in Every Storm

Bible Passages: Mt 28:16–20, Mk 4:35–41

Introduction

Storms. Winter snow storms. Summer thunder storms. Natural disasters. What about other storms that affect our lives: sickness, job loss, addictions. How do you react to such events?

California Wildfires: In January 2025, devastating wildfires swept through the Los Angeles area. The California Governor asked Congress for nearly $40 billion in aid to help the region recover. Some residents panicked and evacuated without proper planning, leading to traffic jams and increased risk. Others remained calm, followed evacuation protocols, and helped neighbors, which resulted in safer and more efficient evacuations.

Southwest Colombia Landslide: Heavy rains earlier in March of 2025 unleashed a landslide in Colombia's southwest region, killing one person and leaving three missing. Some residents reacted with fear and confusion, hindering rescue efforts. Others organized quickly, assisting rescue teams and providing support to affected families, which improved the efficiency of the response.

In every storm life brings, we can take comfort that God is with us, guiding and empowering In every storm life brings, we can take comfort that God is with us, guiding and empowering us to fulfill His mission without fear of being alone.

In the Bible, the story of Jesus calming the storm while on a boat with His disciples is a powerful illustration of God's presence and guidance during life's storms. Despite the fear and chaos, Jesus' presence brought peace and reassurance to His followers.

Throughout history, there are numerous accounts of people who have felt God's presence and guidance during tumultuous periods.

The Great Fire of London started on September 2, 1666, and lasted for four days, destroying much of the city. The fire began in a bakery on Pudding Lane and quickly spread due to strong winds and the wooden structures that dominated the city. The initial reaction of the residents was panic and chaos, which hindered early efforts to control the fire. People tried to save their belongings and escape the city, leading to overcrowded streets and increased confusion.

However, as the fire continued to rage, the leadership of King Charles II and the Lord Mayor of London, Sir Thomas Bloodworth, played a crucial role in managing the disaster. King Charles II ordered the demolition of buildings to create firebreaks, which eventually helped to contain the fire. The organized efforts and calm leadership during the crisis were instrumental in preventing further destruction and loss of life.

This event highlights how initial panic can exacerbate a situation, while calm and strategic responses can lead to better outcomes. The Great Fire of London also led to significant changes in building regulations and urban planning, making the city more resilient to future disasters.

Today’s biblical passages highlight God's promise of presence and support through Jesus's command to make disciples and His calming of the storm, reassuring us that He cares for us amid life's challenges.

God's presence is a promise fulfilled in Jesus, who calls us to action while also being our refuge in times of trouble.

In Matthew 28:20, Jesus assures us of His presence to the end of the age, paralleling the assurance in Mark 4 where Jesus, even in the storm, demonstrates His authority and care, thus embodying the ultimate promise of God’s enduring presence throughout Scripture.

Big Idea:

In every storm life brings, we can take comfort that God is with us, guiding and empowering us to fulfill His mission without fear of being alone.

Worship Through Weakness

Matthew 28:16–17 NIV

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.

The disciples worship Jesus even in their doubt. This demonstrates that despite our uncertainties and fears, worship can be a critical response. Jesus invites us into His mission not because we are perfect, but because He is always with us. In doing so, we embrace His presence, reminding us that we are never truly alone.

During the Great Commission, the disciples worship Jesus at the mountain, yet some doubted. This mirrors our lives when doubt creeps in, and it’s tempting to draw back. However, Jesus doesn’t scold them for their uncertainty; instead, He reassures them of His ever-present authority and support. Just like then, He calls us to worship Him vigorously even when our faith feels shaky. Our weaknesses don't disqualify us; His strength invites us closer.

A historical figure, Thomas Edison, faced countless failures as he invented the light bulb but persistently continued his work, illustrating that doubt and failure can coexist with success. Similarly, the disciples experienced doubt yet chose to worship Jesus. When we recognize our weaknesses, worship becomes our act of faith. It’s an acknowledgment that while we may falter, God’s purpose shines through, illuminating our path as we partake in His mission.

Authority and Assurance

Matthew 28:18–20 NIV

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Jesus’ authoritative command is to make disciples of all nations, underscoring His promise of enduring presence as our encouragement. This assurance gives us boldness in fulfilling our mission. The promise that He is with us to the end of the age can transform our perspective on challenges, casting out fear with faith in His continual companionship.

In the early 70s, at the height of the civil rights movement, Martin Luther King Jr. preached about the power of presence. He often quoted, 'The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.' Just as King drew strength from his faith and community, we can find solace in Jesus’ promise of His presence. His command to go forth with boldness isn’t just a directive; it is an assurance that our mission carries His unwavering support.

When a child learns to ride a bicycle, they often wobble and falter. But with a loving parent running alongside, whispering words of encouragement and holding the seat, the child gains confidence and courage. Similarly, as Jesus calls us to make disciples, He reassures us, 'I am with you.' Just like that parent, His presence steadies us in our mission, reminding us that our fears can’t overtake the boldness He provides through His companionship.

Calm Amidst Chaos

Mark 4:35–38 NIV

That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”

Can your imagine sleeping through a rough storm like this one? Jesus sleeps amidst the storm. Here, Jesus’ sleeping presence becomes a powerful metaphor for trust in God’s timing and calm amid our chaos. We often fear being overwhelmed by life's storms, but Jesus’ presence lets us know we're not alone. His peace can be ours if we trust in His divine oversight.

A personal story comes to mind: One night during a family trip, we drove into a thunderous storm. The fear was palpable; I thought we might not make it. But our youngest child, in the backseat, fell asleep peacefully. Her trust in my driving calmed my anxious heart. Like that little girl, Jesus' presence allows us to sleep through life's storms. It is a profound reminder that trusting God amidst fear can transform our anxiety into peace.

Faith Over Fear

Mark 4:39–41 NIV

He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”

Why do we fear? Why do we doubt our faith? Jesus’ question about faith following His calming of the storm all those years ago speaks to us today. This is a turning point where faith is seen as an acknowledgment of Jesus’ authority and care. Let this divine control bolster our peace and confidence in times of trouble, reminding us that God's promise in Christ means fear has no place amidst faith.

Imagine you're in a small boat, tossed around by monstrous waves, with lightning flashing all around. Suddenly, you see a figure on the water, calm and composed—it's Jesus. He asks you gently, 'Why are you afraid? Do you still not have faith?' In that moment, you realize your fear pales in comparison to His authority. Like the disciples, we too can find peace when we trust in His power, knowing He is always with us.

Big Idea:

In every storm life brings, we can take comfort that God is with us, guiding and empowering us to fulfill His mission without fear of being alone.

Applications

If you're feeling overwhelmed by family responsibilities or personal issues, take a moment to pray specifically about your struggles. You might be tempted to isolate yourself and think you must handle everything on your own. Write down your feelings and then meditate on a scripture like Isaiah 41:10, which reminds you that God is always with you. Share these thoughts with a trusted friend or join a small group where you can discuss the challenges and pray together. This will help you see that you aren’t alone in your struggles and God’s presence is always there.

At school, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one facing anxiety or stress from exams and relationships. When those feelings start to overwhelm you, intentionally take a moment to breathe deeply and whisper a short prayer asking God for peace. Reach out to fellow classmates who might seem to be struggling too. Suggest forming a study group or a prayer circle where you can support each other. This not only reminds you of God’s presence but also builds a community where everyone feels understood and less isolated.

Kids might feel lonely or scared when facing big changes or challenges, like moving to a new school or dealing with friendships. When you notice those feelings, encourage your child to talk to you or their favorite stuffed animal about their feelings. Explain that God is like a loving hug that is always there. Help them create a ‘God is with me’ collage using pictures or drawings of things and people they love, to remind them that God’s love surrounds them. This visual will help them feel less alone and more secure in God’s presence.

If your work environment feels toxic or you’re facing challenges with your colleagues, it can feel isolating. Instead of bottling up those feelings, set aside time each day for prayer and reflection, seeking God’s guidance and support. As you gain confidence through that connection, consider initiating a weekly lunchtime prayer session with interested coworkers. This will create a supportive space where everyone can share their struggles and pray together, reminding you and others that you are never alone in these battles, and God is with you in the workplace.

Many teens face peer pressure and feelings of loneliness, especially during difficult times. If you feel like no one understands your struggles, create a 'God box' where you write down your worries and doubts, and place them inside. This act symbolizes handing your problems over to God. Pair this with regularly meeting with a mentor or a leader at your school who can pray with you and offer guidance. Connecting with someone who shares your faith can provide comfort and show you that God’s support is present even in the toughest times.

Questions to Ponder

What are the primary storms mentioned that can affect our lives?

How does the concept of God’s presence during storms relate to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:20?

In what ways can worship serve as a response to feelings of doubt?

What practical steps can you take to remind yourself of God’s presence in your personal challenges?

How can you encourage community support in times of trouble?

What analogy is used to describe Jesus’ calm during the storm?

How does Jesus' authority over nature illustrate His presence in our lives during challenges?

What does the concept of a 'God box' symbolize for handing over worries and doubts?

How can you apply the idea of reaching out to classmates in your school to build a supportive environment?

In what ways can you demonstrate trust in God during stressful situations like exams or social pressures?

What did Jesus do during the storm while the disciples were afraid?

What does it mean that God is always with us when we are scared or worried?

How can you show your feelings to God, just like you would talk to a stuffed animal?

What can you do when you feel alone or scared at school or home?

How can making a collage help you remember that God loves and is with you?