Now it happened, on a certain day, that He got into a boat with His disciples. And He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side of the lake.” And they launched out. But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm. But He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid and marvelled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”
Luke 8:22-25; NKJV
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Storms. Trials. Mountains.
These words are often used to describe difficult times. These are the times when circumstances seem overwhelming and it appears that the light at the end of the tunnel may never shine.
These periods may involve attacks on our faith, leaving us feeling like we are in a boat in the midst of a stormy sea, with no sign of our Master’s presence.
These times are characterized by turbulent waters, as described in Psalm 46:3, where the waters roar, the earthquakes, and the mountains tremble. In simple terms, they are seasons when things don’t seem to be falling into place.
Recently, I watched a movie that depicted these kinds of situations. The lead character had faced various challenges in his childhood and, after a season of calm, found himself in yet another difficult situation. It seemed as though this new storm might engulf him, leading him to rely on his strength. Unsure of how long it would last, he longed for a permanent state of peace and prosperity.
While we all desire lives free from suffering and pressure, Jesus never promised an easy road. He described the road as narrow and warned that tribulations would be part of our lives. Amid such turbulent times, we may feel troubled and overwhelmed, much like the disciples in the boat.
These storms may manifest in health challenges, financial difficulties, prosecution for our faith or hardships in other aspects of our lives. If we lack the right perspective, they can become breeding grounds for the enemy rather than opportunities for growth and transformation.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place. Since you were precious in My sight, You have been honoured, And I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, And people for your life.
Isaiah 43:2-4; NKJV
Note that this passage of scripture starts with “when”, not “maybe”. When is an adverbial clause of time. In other words, storms are sure to come, but whatever time you go through these situations, you will not be consumed by them.
Therefore, when we through these seasons instead of resort to complaining and bitterness, or giving in to panic and unrest, wo, we can employ the following tools:
1. A prayer of faith – Prayer is essential, especially in critical times. It is our lifeline, helping us seek God’s guidance and understand His will. Faith serves as the currency of the Kingdom, providing a deep assurance that we will overcome it.
2. Maintain focus – Understand that all circumstances work together for good. Regardless of the challenges we face, we must hold onto the belief that all things – both good and bad – will ultimately serve our greater good.
3. Respond with worship – Authentic worship is not confined to good times but should be deeply felt even during trials. Rather than questioning “why me?”, we should lift our hands in worship, affirming our faith in God’s faithfulness.
4. Maintain Joy – Scripture instructs us to rejoice always, regardless of our circumstances. Our response should be one of joy, whether times are good or whether times arebbad.
5. Surround yourself with the right company – We are not meant to journey alone, especially amid storms. Choosing the right companionship during troubled times is crucial. Will those we turn to in times of trouble provide encouragement, or will they add to our distress?
As believers, it’s crucial to understand that hardship is one of the tools God uses to bring about transformation and to prevent us from becoming complacent. While God does not cause evil, difficult times are inevitable as long as we inhabit this earth with our natural bodies. However, from the right perspective, these times can shape and prepare us for the next phase of our lives.
We must also understand that there are things required for us to achieve our life aims. Until we go through certain experiences shaped in the form of suffering (or hardship), we might not have the skills to handle the things God wants to bring us into.
Throughout history, breakthroughs have often emerged from the most challenging times. It may not look like it while you’re going through them, but these periods of trials and adversity can ultimately lead to your greatest growth and transformation.
Keep holding on!
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