There are several significant storms recorded in the Bible. What’s interesting to me about them is how different the circumstances are in each instance. Jonah was caught in a storm because he deliberately bought a ticket to the “wrong” destination. The disciples, who “followed” Jesus were in a boat with him and got caught up in a major storm that ignited panic within them. Paul, heading as a prisoner to Rome, found himself in a ferocious storm that threatened the life of everyone on board.
For you and me, a most profound opportunity lies before us as we navigate through a storm; that of discerning the Lord’s hand and direction at that moment. For Jonah, it was clear that it was a point of conviction by the Lord and the only response was to repent. For the disciples, it was a place of confrontation by the Lord, exposing their fears and offering an opportunity to rise to the occasion and strike back with courage! For Paul and the crew aboard the boat, it was a time of confirmation to emerge and trust in the “Word of the Lord,” placing their very lives in His hands! They believed so strongly that they cut the lifeboats, with no options left but the Lord!
The next time you find yourself in a storm, stop and ask the Lord what He is up to. Is there sin that needs to be confessed? Are there fears that need to be dealt with or maybe obedience is the order of the day? Discerning the hand of the Lord in the middle of a storm just may be one of the most important spiritual acts that you will ever engage in. Ask God today to “fill you with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding!” (Colossians 1:9)
“You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.” -Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)
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By: Glenn Burris Jr., general supervisor
