Life will sometimes be chaotic and unnerving, maybe by the tonnage of everyday obligations, unforeseen difficulties, or the seemingly unpredictably violent storms. However, even in the midst of chaos, Christians are expected to find joy. How do we find joy when it feels like everything is crumbling around us?
Mark 4:35-41 gives the account of the disciples’ chaotic experience on the Sea of Galilee. A ferocious storm was building up, and the waves were crashing over the boat; putting their lives in jeopardy. The disciples were sore afraid, but Jesus had slept off in the boat. The petrified disciples shouted: *“Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”* as they woke Him up. Jesus stood up, rebuked the wind, and commanded the waves to calm down. *“Peace, be still!”* And there was total silence as the wind subsided. Joy in chaos does not mean we are oblivious of the pains or challenges around us. It only means that rather than clinging to our pains and hugging our fears, we have chosen to anchor our faith on God’s promises, which cannot be upended by the storms of life, no matter how boisterous. James 1:2-3 encourages us to consider it pure joy whenever we face trials of many kinds because we know that the testing of our faith produces perseverance. This passage is not saying that we should be happy about the difficulties we face. Rather, it encourages us to find joy in the assurance that our faith is being strengthened through these challenges. The trials we endure are not meaningless; they shape us into the people God intends us to be. Philippians 4:6-7 admonishes us to pray and bring our concerns to God with thanksgiving, when we face difficult times. This shift in focus from our problems to God’s faithfulness allows our hearts and minds to be filled with His peace, even when our circumstances have not changed. Living out joy in chaos requires us to stay connected to God’s Word and to surround ourselves with a community of believers who can encourage and support us. Chaos will always be a part of life, but it does not have to steal our joy! By keeping our eyes on Jesus, trusting on God’s promises, and staying connected to our community of faith, we can find joy that transcends our difficulties. Just as Jesus calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee, He can bring peace and joy into the chaos of our lives. Storms may rage, winds may blow and clouds may gather, but our joy remains steadfast in the One who is greater than any storm. Do you believe? If yes, I hereby speak peace to your chaos and decree calmness in every area where you are troubled in Jesus name!
Beloved, in the words of Nehemiah 8:10, *“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”* Let this be the truth you hold unto in every season of chaos. God bless you. *PEACE*
