Unfortunately, many of our friends in the Colorado Springs, Colo., area, as well as many in portions of the southeast United States, have recently experienced the proverbial “perfect storm.”
With the recent wildfires that have devastated Colorado and the rash of tropical storms in the southeast, many have found themselves learning to trust God at a much greater level. They have been forced to depend on Him through the most difficult circumstances.
The perfect storm is the convergence of a multitude of challenges at the same time and it is intended to reveal what a person will do when the winds of controversy, disappointment, delay, grief, pressure and distraction all hit their life at the same time. The good news in it all is that just like Jesus was there in the boat with the disciples in Mark chapter 4, He’s with us as well to help us win through all the storms of life.
Like any natural disaster, there is an understood list of dos and don’ts if one expects to survive. One key element of victory is to slow down long enough to listen for the voice of God. Jesus is our Good Shepherd and He always has a word of direction to lead us back to the still waters.
The problem is, in the midst of a storm, it takes work to settle our soul down enough to actually hear the still, small voice of the Lord. Though it requires work, it is necessary and it pays big dividends! To act before we’ve gained direction from God is a recipe to make matters worse. He is Jehovah Jireh—the God Who sees in advance and makes provision in advance. In other words, He’s not surprised by the storms we face and He always has a way for us to win if we’ll take the time to hear His voice.
Jesus said in John 14:27, “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” The Amplified Bible says it this way, “Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.” Wow…pretty strong words!!
“Stop allowing yourselves … do not permit yourselves …” Jesus clearly leaves the impression that we have something to say about the peace that we’re able to experience, even in the middle of a storm. We must make a conscious decision to not let the stormy circumstances define who we are or define our expectation for the future. God is always a good God, and He is always a faithful God. So, as long as He is on our side, there is reason for hope and confidence that better days are still ahead.
So, for those who may be experiencing multiple challenges at one time, causing you to feel alone in your struggle, know that you are never alone. Jesus is there with you and there’s a host of other members of the body of Christ who are determined to pray for you until you see victory again. Things may be dark today, but with Jesus on your side, there is hope for tomorrow. So, settle into your secret place in God, release your authority by declaring what His word says concerning you, and ride out the storm until you see the daylight again!
Bishop George Davis is the author of Passing the Tests of Life. He is also the senior pastor of Faith Christian Center in Jacksonville, Fla.
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