[SERMON] DIVINE CONTROL - WHEN GOD STEPS INTO THE CHAOS. REV. DR. YAKUBU PAM.

Life can often feel like a whirlwind—unexpected storms, shattered plans, and moments of complete helplessness. Just when everything seems to be falling apart, God steps in. He doesn’t always prevent the storm, but He shows His power in the midst of it. This is the essence of Divine Control—the sovereign intervention of God when human strength, wisdom, and resources are no longer enough.

WHEN CHAOS STRIKES.

There are times when life takes a sudden turn—perhaps through the loss of a job, a broken relationship, a diagnosis we never saw coming, or a wave of discouragement and despair. These are the moments when we feel like everything is out of control.

But what seems chaotic to us is never out of control for God.

Jesus and the Storm: “Peace, Be Still”

In Mark 4:37–39, the disciples were caught in a violent storm while crossing the Sea of Galilee. Though many of them were experienced fishermen, the storm was so fierce that they feared for their lives. Jesus, however, was asleep in the boat. In panic, they woke Him up: “Master, don’t you care that we perish?”

Then came the divine response: “Peace, be still.”

Immediately, the wind ceased and there was a great calm. This story reminds us that even when God seems silent or distant, He is still present—and in control. With just a word, He can calm the fiercest storm.

The Red Sea Experience: When There’s No Way.

Exodus 14 captures one of the most dramatic scenes in biblical history. The Israelites were trapped between Pharaoh’s army and the Red Sea. Humanly speaking, there was no way out. But Moses told the people: “Fear not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13).

Then God instructed Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea, and the waters parted. What looked like certain death turned into a pathway of deliverance. God made a way where there was no way. That’s Divine Control—God’s power to override natural limitations and change the outcome entirely.

LAZARUS: WHEN IT’S TOO LATE.

In John 11, Lazarus had been dead for four days when Jesus arrived in Bethany. Martha said, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” They had faith for healing—but resurrection? That seemed out of reach.

Jesus declared, “I am the resurrection and the life.” He then called Lazarus forth from the grave, proving that not even death can escape His command. Divine Control means that no situation is beyond hope when God is involved—not even death itself.

Other Instances of Divine Intervention

Throughout Scripture, we see repeated moments when God intervened in hopeless situations:

• Joseph went from a prison to a palace because of God’s timing.

• Daniel was preserved in the lions’ den.

• The woman with the issue of blood was healed when all other remedies failed.

• Paul and Silas were supernaturally freed from prison at midnight.

Each story reinforces a powerful truth: God is never late. He is never limited. He is never overwhelmed. He is in control.

Living with Confidence in Divine Control

In a world filled with uncertainty, we can live with confidence because our God reigns. His control isn’t just distant or abstract—it’s personal. He is a very present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

Even when the outcome doesn’t match our expectations, we can rest knowing that God’s wisdom is higher than ours. His plans are perfect, and His timing is always right.

FINAL THOUGHTS 💭

If you’re in a storm, standing before a Red Sea, or facing a seemingly dead situation, remember: God has the final say. He steps into messes and turns them into miracles. He calms storms, makes paths through seas, and calls the dead back to life.

This is Divine Control—God’s loving, powerful intervention in the lives of His people. Trust Him. He’s still in control.