The Upper Room Devotional 16 April 2026, Thursday Message
Calm in the Storm
Lilian Okafor (Lagos, Nigeria)
Today’s Reading
Luke 8:22-25
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Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. – John 14:27 (NRSVUE)
After an early morning departure, all I wanted was some much-needed rest on the plane. But as we took off, the pilot announced there would be turbulence. When the first wave hit, it felt like I was jerked out of my seat — a rude awakening. I was determined to sleep but found it incredibly difficult as the plane swayed and jolted.
I thought of the story where Jesus slept through a storm on a boat. I wondered, How did Jesus manage to sleep through such chaos? In that moment, I began to grasp the concept of “peace that passes all understanding.” Despite the plane’s violent movements, when I focused inward I noticed a remarkable sense of peace. I realized that peace doesn’t mean the absence of troubles. Rather, it is a conscious choice to remain calm amid the storm. But we cannot do this alone, and that is why Christ gave us his peace.
When we face storms, saying a prayer or affirmation can be grounding. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us that prayer can bring a peace that transcends understanding. Amid turbulence, let us remember that Christ’s peace has been given to us — a gift we can freely accept.
Thought for the Day
I can have peace in my heart because God is with me in the storm.
Prayer Focus
Travelers
Today’s Prayer
Dear God, help us to embrace the gift of your peace even in the most difficult times. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 16 April 2026 is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More
