When examining life, we can all agree that life has tough moments. Sometimes, it may feel like there is no way. This can also apply to our Christian life when we are going through a hardship. However, we know that God will deliver us but do you know that God will allow us to have these tough moments or “storms”? Grab your Bibles and let us talk about storms and how to navigate them!
To elaborate, let us define what a storm is. When discussing weather, it is defined as a violent disturbance. In our Christian walk, we can define it as a period of hardship or trials. These trials can include work, financial difficulties, school, relationships, etc. When they come upon us, how should we respond? If God is good and He loves us, why does He allow such trials to happen?
James tells us in James 1: 2-4 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trails,” “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” As Christians, we should expect storms to happen in our life. However, we should not see them as an act of punishment from God. They exist to strengthen our faith and our relationship with Him.
So if we are to expect storms, how should we respond? We can either let them define us or we praise God through them. Yep, it is possible to praise God through storms! It is during the storms of life that shows who we trust in. Do we still love the Lord or are we going to forsake Him? If we have a close relationship with the Lord, the storm in our life will only serve to strengthen us.
God tells us in His word that He will never give us something we cannot handle (see 1 Corinthians 10: 13). If you are going through a trial, God knows that you can overcome it. However, God still expects you to spend time and grow in His word. We are to renew our mind in God’s word and spend time in prayer. Only by doing so, we can stand strong and let the Lord complete His work in us.
If you are currently going through a storm, know that it will not last forever. God has a time for everything in our life. Maybe, He is building you up to serve a greater purpose or He wants you to be stronger in your faith. Whatever the case may be, we can know that everything works together for good if we love God. Spend time with the Lord and have faith that God will come through for you and will never abandon you. Look to the Lord and He will strengthen you and come to your aid when you call upon Him.
Thought for the week: What storms are you going through or what have you experienced? How was your response? Is there something you can do differently when it happens again?