At three in the afternoon, a massive EF5 tornado packing 200 mph winds spent 40 minutes on the ground in and around Monroe, Oklahoma, traveled 17 miles, and leveled 13,000 homes, several schools, and a hospital. Twenty four people were killed, and two billion dollars in damage was done.
Paul also experienced a change in weather. But the weather changed abruptly, and a wind of typhoon strength (called a “northeaster”) burst across the island (Acts 27:14 NLT). He had warned the ship’s officers not to leave the previous port, but his caution was overruled. Efforts to save the ship were unsuccessful, and though hope vanished, Paul had angelic news. The ship would perish but not the passengers.
Just as erratic weather patterns produce monster storms that destroy life and limb, so spiritual storms usually assault us when we least expect it. Knowing Christ as Savior doesn’t exempt us, but at least God gives us a couple storm promises.
God’s indwelling Spirit will give us power to endure and overcome the storm. Some years later, Paul reflected and wrote, And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:38 NLT). God’s Spirit never leaves or abandons us and is always present to provide comfort and wisdom.
God also controls the length and intensity of life’s storms. No storm arrives without his permission, nor do they hang around any longer or do any greater damage than he gives them authorization to.
No one enjoys storms…natural or spiritual, but they’re part of the journey. When it seems as if you’ve lost all hope, turn to the One who gives strength and hope even in the most devastating storms.
Prayer: We trust You all-powerful God to carry us through the storms of life and to give us hope even when it appears there is none.
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