Trusting In The Storms by Martin Wiles

Lightning peeled and thunder rolled. All protecting us was a tent.

My brother and I were camping in the Smokies. The day was beautiful, but darkness brought dramatic changes. Storms rolled in bringing deafening thunder, keen lightning and torrential rain. Our tents provided little security, and we lay awake listening, fearing, praying and contemplating our powerlessness over the storm. Eventually we drifted off to sleep and the storms subsided.

Storms can be terrifying and deadly. Leaving the crowds, Jesus and his disciples head for the other side of the lake but encounter a storm that threatens to destroy their ship and lives. Jesus seems indifferent. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” (Mark 4:38) Frantic with fear, the disciples wake Jesus. He calms the storm but rebukes them for their weak faith.

Storms have a way of testing and transforming faith. Regardless of whether they are sent or allowed by God, storms of conflict, doubt, depression, financial struggles or family breakup can mold or melt our faith. And we choose the outcome by our response. God’s intent is always to mold our faith, growing us into Christlike thoughts, attitudes and actions. His ability to limit the intensity and length of the storm encourages us take one more step.

Storms normally come unexpectedly, so preparation is vital. People living where tornadoes or hurricanes are common normally have homes with basements or storm shelters. Listening for the Spirit’s guiding voice coupled with regular prayer and Bible reading-as well as trusting in God’s power, enables us to endure storms with confidence instead of doubt and fear.   

Prayer: Merciful Savior, thank You for controlling the length and intensity of the storms. Guide us to trust You to bring us safely through.