I Choose Today to Ride the Storm

Have you ever been in an intense storm? You know, a storm that consist of high winds you cannot stand up against and heavy rains that you can’t see past?

Paul and his captors experienced a storm. But in the midst of this dangerous, frightening storm, God was there.

”For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, and He said, ‘Don’t be afraid… What’s more, God in His goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.’ So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as He said.“ ‭‭Acts‬ ‭27‬:‭23‬-‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬

God’s presence during Paul’s storm illustrates His faithfulness in the midst of adversity. Similarly, when I faced the tumultuous storm of losing my son, I discovered firsthand the solace and strength that come from relying on God.

I find comfort in this account from Paul’s experience. My comfort is in knowing God is with me through my hard stuff, my mess, my storms; He will bring me through it.

I once had a friend who, after learning about my loss, said she couldn’t believe I was still standing; still smiling; still had joy in my life. I was able to share with her that in the wake of my loss, I found the strength to endure, the hope to persevere, and the joy to continue living through my faith in God.

I love what a friend said recently, “A broken person who has learned from life’s storms to depend on God is a force to be reckoned with.” This is so true. If we allow God to use our storms in life to refine us versus define us, then God can work amazing things through our struggles; times of brokenness.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want my perfect storms in life to be in vain. I want to see good come out of it! Only God can do that!

A friend reminded me of what John 5:5 says, “Apart from Me [Jesus], you can do nothing.”  Only through Christ, to Whom we can do all things through His strength and power, can He make beauty from ashes.

Just as Paul’s story brought me comfort, I hope my own journey has offered solace and encouragement. Remember, you are never alone in your storm. God, the One to whom you belong, stands beside you, offering strength and guidance every step of the way.

Reflect on your own storms and how God has been present in your life. Share your experiences with others who may need encouragement and remind them that they are not alone. Let’s continue to rely on God’s strength and guidance as we navigate life’s challenges together.