Coming Out of the Storm

Dr. Joe Cephus Bingham Sr., Blog

Finding Peace and Purpose After Life’s Hardest Seasons

Every one of us has faced seasons that felt like storms—times when the winds of adversity blew fiercely, and it seemed like hope was slipping through our fingers. Whether the storm came in the form of loss, illness, betrayal, or uncertainty, one truth remains: storms don’t last forever, and God is always in control—even in the middle of them.

 When the Storm Hits

Life’s storms often arrive without warning. They test our faith and expose what we truly believe about God’s goodness. The disciples experienced this firsthand in Mark 4:37–39 (NIV):

“A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, ‘Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?’ He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down, and it was completely calm.”

Notice that Jesus was in the boat during the storm. The disciples were afraid, but the presence of Christ changed everything. It’s a reminder that God’s presence doesn’t prevent storms—it brings peace in the middle of them.

God’s Purpose in the Storm

It’s easy to ask, “Why me?” when we’re struggling, but storms often serve divine purposes. They can strengthen our faith, deepen our dependence on God, and prepare us for what’s next.

James 1:2–4 (NIV) encourages us:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

God uses storms to shape us, not to destroy us. What feels like chaos may actually be preparation. When we emerge on the other side, we often realize that our faith has grown stronger, our prayers have become deeper, and our hearts more compassionate.

 The Promise After the Storm

Even after the darkest storms, God’s promises shine like a rainbow—reminders of His faithfulness and grace.

In Isaiah 43:2 (NIV), God declares:

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.”

Notice the wording: when you pass through—not if. God doesn’t promise a storm-free life, but He promises His unfailing presence through it all.

And when the storm passes, something beautiful happens. The air feels clearer, and so does our perspective. We see how God carried us, even when we didn’t realize it. The storm becomes our testimony.

 A Modern Story

Maya, a parishioner of Dr. Bingham, had lost almost everything in a short time—her job, her health, and her confidence. It felt as though wave after wave hit her life. But instead of giving up, she turned to Scripture each morning, reading Psalm 46 aloud:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1 NIV)

Over time, she began to sense a quiet peace. The doors began to open, whereas they had been closed before. Looking back, Maya realized that while the storm had shaken her, it had also refined her faith. She came out stronger, wiser, and more grounded in God’s promises.

 How to Come Out of the Storm

If you’re facing a storm today, here are a few spiritual anchors to hold onto:

1. Stay in the Word. God’s Word is your anchor when the waves of doubt hit.

   
   

   “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” — Psalm 119:105

2. Pray through the pain. Prayer doesn’t always change your situation immediately, but it changes your heart.

3. Trust God’s timing. Every storm has an expiration date.

   
   

   “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” — Psalm 30:5

4. Look for the lesson. God often uses storms to prune, strengthen, and prepare you for a greater purpose.

 Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my shelter in every storm. When the winds rage and the waves rise, remind me that You are still in control. Help me to trust Your timing, to find peace in Your presence, and to emerge from every trial stronger in faith. I know that this storm will not last forever, and that Your promises will guide me into calm waters. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Thought

Coming out of the storm isn’t just about surviving—it’s about emerging renewed. The same God who spoke peace over the sea can speak peace into your life today. Hold on, keep your eyes on Jesus, and you’ll find that what once tried to drown you will instead deepen your faith.