How Do You React to Storms in Your Life?
I can honestly say I have never heard anyone say that they wanted to be in the middle of a storm in their lives. I don’t recall ever hearing someone say, “I have things too easy right now and I just want God to put me into a storm so life will not be so easy.”
The truth is that storms are a natural part of life both physically and spiritually. We do not always know when the storms of life may come our way, but you can be assured one will. I once heard it said that you are either about to go into a storm, in the middle of a storm, or coming out of a storm because they are a guarantee of our spiritual walk of life.
Storms occur in several different ways. It can be with death of a loved one or health issues or financial problems or family problems or etc. Each of these storms that we face will try us. They test our perseverance and our faith in God. We will find ourselves longing for the good times outside of the storm but stuck in the middle of the storm.
God tells us in I Thessalonians 5:18 “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
How is it possible to thank God amidst such turmoil? The answer lies within stories of faith and gratitude scattered throughout the Bible. These accounts reveal people like us facing storms yet choosing thankfulness over despair.
King David was no stranger to hardship. Despite facing severe persecution, he never failed to thank God. In Psalm 7, we find him pouring out his heart in prayer and praise, even when surrounded by enemies.
In a more dramatic example, Jonah gave thanks from within a fish. After disobeying God and suffering dire consequences, he realized his mistake and returned to God with gratitude (Jonah 2:1-9). His story reminds us that there is always room for thanksgiving – even in our biggest blunders.
Life's storms are tough, but Apostle Paul shows us how to navigate them with gratitude. Despite being shipwrecked and caught in a literal storm, he didn't lose faith or hope. In Acts 27:35, we read that "After he said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all." Paul teaches us that when life gets hard, don't focus on the storm; instead, look towards God. His steadfastness wasn’t because his circumstances were good but because his God is.
The life of Jesus presents an extraordinary example of gratitude, especially during trials.
In a remarkable event where thousands were fed with only a few loaves and fishes (Matthew 14:13-21), Jesus started by giving thanks. This act shows that even when resources seem scarce, we can trust God to multiply our little when we approach Him with thankfulness.
In another poignant moment before his crucifixion (Luke 22:19), Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it. Even at the brink of immense suffering, He chose to be grateful, teaching us that there is power in expressing gratitude amidst storms.
Life storms are inevitable, but they also offer unique opportunities. They let us discover God's transformative power through praise.
Gratitude, a cornerstone of faith, often shines brightest amidst trials.
While the storms may not be fun, a Christian can be thankful for the storms of life. If not for the storms of life, we would never know how to enjoy the good times we experience in God. We would never develop a deeper faith and trust in God. If not for the storms of life, we will never know what it is like to be brought out of the miry clay and set upon the rock. Storms are going to happen and when they do, be thankful because God is doing something in your life. It may not be easy, and it may bring you into a horrible pit. For the Christian, just remember that this is the worst that it will ever be for us down here in this world.
Cultivate your own heart of gratitude. Gratitude isn't just about saying 'thank you.' It's an attitude, a lifestyle. Small steps towards thankfulness can significantly change your perspective on life's storms.
The power of thankfulness is transformative; it brings breakthroughs and blessings even in our darkest hours. Keep this truth close to your heart as you navigate through life!
THANK YOU, LORD
