Topical Bible: The Wind: God: Assuages

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In the biblical narrative, the wind is often depicted as a powerful force under the control of God, serving His divine purposes. One of the significant roles of the wind is its function in assuaging or calming situations, particularly in the context of divine intervention and mercy.

Genesis 8:1 · The first notable instance of God using the wind to assuage is found in the account of Noah and the Flood. After the waters had covered the earth, God remembered Noah and all the animals in the ark. The scripture states, "Then God remembered Noah and all the animals and livestock that were with him in the ark, and He sent a wind over the earth, and the waters began to subside" . Here, the wind is an instrument of God's mercy, facilitating the recession of the floodwaters and the restoration of the earth.

Exodus 14:21 · Another significant event is the parting of the Red Sea, where God uses the wind to deliver the Israelites from the Egyptians. "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided" . In this instance, the wind is a tool of salvation, providing a path of escape for God's people and demonstrating His sovereign power over creation.

Jonah 1:4, 1:15 · In the account of Jonah, the wind is initially a force of judgment but ultimately becomes an agent of calm. When Jonah flees from God's command, "the LORD hurled a great wind upon the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break apart" . However, after Jonah is thrown overboard, "the sea ceased from its raging" . The calming of the storm illustrates God's control over the elements and His willingness to restore peace once His purposes are fulfilled.

Mark 4:39 · In the New Testament, Jesus demonstrates His divine authority over the wind and sea. During a storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus "got up and rebuked the wind and the sea. 'Silence!' He commanded. 'Be still!' And the wind died down, and it was perfectly calm" . This miracle not only reveals Jesus' identity as the Son of God but also His power to bring peace and order out of chaos.

Throughout Scripture, the wind is a symbol of God's omnipotence and His ability to bring about change, whether through judgment or mercy. It serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and His capacity to calm the storms of life, both literal and metaphorical, according to His divine will.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 8:26
And he said to them, Why are you fearful, O you of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 14:32
And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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