“For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” ~ Psalm 30:5
REFERENCE:
Are you going through a stormy experience? Are you fighting a battle for identity or legitimacy, to keep your business afloat, victory over an illness, or going through a stormy marital situation? Do you tire of trying to achieve your goals and make ends meet? Our main text captures the promise that joy and calmness will follow no matter how fierce your present storm is.
The disciples of Jesus were once caught in a storm while rowing a boat to land. Having done all they could, they despaired of life, but at the fourth watch, Jesus walked towards them on the storm, calmed their storm, and landed them safely at their harbor. The trials and challenges can leave you feeling battered and weary, but take heart: life’s difficulties are not permanent.
“Though the mountains be shaken, and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken, nor my covenant of peace be removed.” Isaiah 54:10. God’s love and peace are our unshakeable and firm foundation during life’s storms. Life’s storms may bring moments of pain and sadness, but the dawn of a new day is guaranteed. Even the most challenging trials are temporary and serve a greater purpose – molding and shaping us into vessels fit for God’s use.
Storms have a way of strengthening our faith and refining our character. When we pass these tests, the calm comes after the storm. We also find peace in the calm that comes after the storm. This peace is enduring, a gift from God that brings tranquility to our hearts after our most turbulent moments so that we can look back and thank God for our storms.
A garden of colorful flowers was devastated by a wild storm. As the sun emerges in the following days, what was once a place of desolation begins to show signs of life. Tender shoots emerge, flowers bloom, and the garden becomes a vibrant display of unequaled beauty. Also, the storms we face, though destructive, can pave the way for new growth and strength.
PHOTO QUOTE
ADDITIONAL TEXTS:
II Cor 4:17, James 1:2-4, Psalm 34:17-18, and Romans 8:28
PRAYER:
+ I cry out to You, O Lord, amid my storm; deliver me from trouble. Heal me and save me from all assaults of the wicked one.
+ Work all things together for my good, O Lord. Give me beauty for ashes, and turn my mourning into dancing, in Jesus’ name.
