We all fit into one of three categories: we are heading into a storm, we are currently in one, or we are coming out of one. Storms are not a question of “if” but “when.”

My storms have come in many forms: the death of loved ones, marital and family struggles, losing a job, traumatic events, and the consequences of my own sin. When I focus on the storm, it is easy to become overwhelmed with anxiety, discouragement, or fear. But God does not want us to fix our eyes on the storm—He wants us to fix them on Him.

Matthew 14 gives us a clear picture of this. The disciples were far from land, fighting strong winds and heavy waves in the middle of the night. When they saw Jesus walking on the water, they were terrified and cried out in fear, thinking He was a ghost (Matthew 14:24-26, NLT).

Jesus responded with these powerful words: “Don’t be afraid. Take courage. I am here!” (v. 27). He was not shaken by the storm. He was completely in control.

Peter showed shaky but real faith. He stepped out of the boat and walked on water toward Jesus. But when he looked at the wind and waves, fear took over and he began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he cried. Jesus immediately reached out, caught him, and said, “You have so little faith. Why did you doubt me?” (v. 31).

When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. The disciples worshiped Jesus, declaring, “You really are the Son of God!” (vv. 32-33).

Whether you are heading into a storm, in the middle of one, or coming out of one, Jesus is with you. He is not afraid of your storm. In fact, God often uses storms to develop and strengthen our faith because He loves us deeply.

Romans 5:3-5 says: “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”

God has every storm under control—even when it doesn’t feel like it. Jesus is near. Do not be afraid. Take courage. Step out in faith and let Him shape and develop you through it.

Reflection

Think about a storm you have experienced. Looking back, how did God develop or strengthen you through it?

Prayer

Lord, help me keep my eyes on You instead of the storm. Give me courage when I feel afraid, faith when I feel weak, and peace in the middle of every trial. Thank You that You are with me and that You use every storm for my growth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotional Written By: Godside