Growing Strong in the Storm

The storms of this world bring many challenges, but one of the biggest is the loss of power, especially the loss of lighting. Our modern world is very dependent on electricity to light our rooms, provide heating and cooling, and even provide information through television and radio programming. A big storm can bring strong winds, ice, heavy rain and/or snow that can all interfere with the ability to see and be informed.

The same is true of storms in our lives. The challenges that storms bring can make it difficult to see our path if we start relying on our own abilities instead of the power that can be found in the One who provides true peace and direction. Just like Peter, we need to keep our eyes on God to weather the storm.

Most of us prepare for storms by gassing up our power generators or making sure the flashlights have good batteries when we know a storm is coming. Hiding the Word in our hearts is much the same as it provides the light we need when storms hit and we cannot see through the darkness. Oh, how I love the Word of the LORD and the lessons He hides in my heart.

God’s power lights this world. God’s power provides knowledge of how to weather the storms. God’s power is all that one needs to survive and we find that power in His word, the Bible.

The Book of Job tells of the wonderful power of our God during the relentless testing of a Godly man. It reminds us that God is all-knowing and is ever present. If Job, a man that God considered one of his most faithful, can be tested with so many challenges; why in the world would I think I won’t be tested?

When I am tested, I must remember that God is always with me. Job 36:4 tells us

“For truly my words are not false; One who is perfect in knowledge is with you.” NKJV

I lean on that lesson because it is hidden in my heart. It is hidden there because I was obedient and studied God’s Word when he told me to do so.

Much like Job (and, no – I do not consider myself to be as faithful as Job, but I am working on it), my family and I have been tested in many ways. I wish I could say that we’ve always looked for God and trusted that He would lead us through any challenge. Unfortunately, that would simply not be a true statement. However, we are growing stronger in our ability to look for God in any challenge or storm and trust He will see us through. We are looking for the light to show us the path.

Speaking of the light, the Book of Exodus is an excellent example of God lighting the way. Even though God had already demonstrated his power over and over again, the Hebrews still doubted. God literally provided a “cloud by day” and a “pillar of fire by night” to show them the way. Yet, at the very first chance they forgot who was leading them. He wasn’t hidden in their heart, and the moment He wasn’t ‘standing before them’, they strayed.

We are all human and subject to forget who God is and what He is. We must be diligent in our seeking of Him in good times and bad. He is always there but, just as Peter did, we need to call out to him in our moment of need. He will catch us and show us His power.