“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the river, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned…” – Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)
Storms are considered natural hazards or disasters. In the spiritual sense, storms are deemed life’s trials and/or challenges. They are also called tests and can sometimes cause extreme suffering. Storms generally have the ability to disrupt life and living, irrespective of their form.
The Bible tells us about a man named Job who lived in the land of Uz. He was a very wealthy and devout man of God. The account also states that he was the father of ten children (seven sons and three daughters). The storms of life hit Job’s entire household. In one day, he lost everything he had accumulated, including his ten children. Can you imagine yourself in an ordeal like this?
The account continued with Job questioning God. His three friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, wrongly assumed that his suffering was a direct result of sins he may have committed. Through all the pain and anguish, he held on to the greatest possession he had, his faith. Despite his trials and suffering, Job continued to believe in God (Job 13:15); he never gave up.
Peace is not the absence of storms, as is evident in this account, but the belief that the presence of God is always with you. Job confirmed this when God spoke directly to him from a whirlwind, reminding him that he was not alone (Job 38). Job’s faith was validated, and he totally surrendered his struggles, knowing that God’s ultimate plan is perfect. Oh, what peace!
Remember, friends, suffering is not always a punishment for sin. Job said, “…Naked I came from my mother’s womb and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” (Job 1:21, NIV).
Can you give God thanks in the midst of your dilemma? I trust you can. Why? God is ever-present. When you’re tested, you will come forth as gold (Job 23:10). He’s a restorer (Job 42:10).
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father. I come before Your throne, seeking Your face for strength to withstand the storms of life. I pray that You will give me Your peace in the midst of those difficult seasons. May I have the grace and fortitude to hold on as Job did, knowing that tough times don’t last forever. Thank You, Lord, for being my rock, my shield, and strong tower, and for always being with me, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
Read: Psalm 46:1; John 14:27
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 14:25-35; Acts 8:4-40; 2 Samuel 20; 2 Samuel 21