Going Through the Storm

Jocephus Bingham Sr.

Going through a literal or metaphorical storm holds deep spiritual significance in Scripture. Storms often represent trials, suffering, or spiritual testing. However, they also become settings where God reveals His power, presence, and purpose. Here's a biblical view on why facing storms matters, backed by Scripture:

1. Storms Reveal God's Presence

Amid life's storms, we often experience God more personally and intimately.

• Mark 4:37-41 – "And a great windstorm arose... But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow... He stood up and spoke to the wind and sea, saying, "Peace, be still!" The disciples were scared, but they saw Jesus' control over nature in the storm. They understood His divine power.

• Psalm 46:1-2 – "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear..." ➤ Storms don't mean God has left us—they're often the moments when His presence becomes most evident.

2. Storms Build Faith and Dependence on God

Trials strip away self-reliance and cause us to depend on God entirely.

• James 1:2-4 – "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.The purpose of the storm is not to destroy you, but to develop spiritual maturity and perseverance.

• 2 Corinthians 1:8-9—"...that we were burdened beyond measure... that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead." ➤ Paul explains God allows intense trials to teach us to rely on Him.

3. Storms Teach Us Obedience and Humility

Sometimes storms are corrective, used by God to align us with His will.

• Jonah 1:4-17—"But the Lord sent out a great wind on the sea..." ➤ Jonah's storm came from disobedience. It led him to repent and return to God's purpose.

• Hebrews 12:11 – "No discipline seems pleasant at the time... but it produces a harvest of righteousness..." ➤ God uses difficulty to shape and discipline those He loves.

4. Storms Prepare Us for Greater Purpose

The storm may be a necessary step in preparation for your calling or ministry.

• Acts 27 – Paul's shipwreck was part of God's larger plan to get him to Rome. His leadership in the storm gave him credibility and influence.

• Romans 8:28 – "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." ➤ Even painful storms serve God's purpose in the believer's life.

5. Jesus Is the Anchor in Every Storm

He doesn't always stop the storm immediately but Walks us through it.

• Isaiah 43:2 – "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you... when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned..." ➤ God's promise is not avoidance of storms but His faithful presence through them.

• Hebrews 6:19 – "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." ➤ Christ is our stability when everything around us is shaken.

Conclusion:

Storms are not signs of God's absence, but often platforms for His glory, growth, and guidance. They refine our faith, realign our hearts, and reveal the faithfulness of God. As the old saying goes, "Sometimes God calms the storm, and sometimes He lets the storm rage and calms His child."