There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who are going through a crisis, and those who are going to go through a crisis. But here’s the good news: storms don’t last forever. They have a beginning, they have a middle, and they have an end. Sure, there will be other storms to follow, but hopefully there are some rainbows in between, some beautiful sunny days, and some great times.
Storms will come, however, and they have their purposes.
Practical Principles
- There are protecting storms. When Jesus sent His disciples across the Sea of Galilee, He did not promise them calm waters, but He did promise them a safe arrival. They encountered a storm that was protecting them from themselves. The adulation, the praise, the power that would’ve come their way if they ruled and reigned over the people with Jesus as King would’ve certainly destroyed them. He was protecting them.
- There are perfecting storms. These are when we go through trials and hardships in life that God allows. Sometimes these events seem random, but they never are because we know from Romans 8:28 that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him and are the called according to His purpose.
- There are correcting storms. These are often storms we bring upon ourselves, so to speak. Remember, the Lord is wanting us to mature in our faith and one of the marks of God’s love for us is discipline.
Relevant Reminders
- We’ve been given the same commission Jonah was given: to preach the gospel to our world.
- It’s hard when nonbelievers call you out in your sin. It is better to be obedient to God’s will so that your life is an example, not a contradiction.
- When people read the Book of Jonah, they’re so busy looking at the great fish, they miss the great God.
Applicable Actions
Ultimately, as Christians, we will live happily ever after, but there might be some rough seas along the way. Are you prepared for the storms in life that are coming your way? Having a biblical perspective about the storms of life will help you to weather them when they come.
And don’t run from God. Run to God. He loves you. His plan for you is better than your plan for yourself.
