We all will go through storms. Each storm is different and no two are a like. Some of them seem huge and others only last a short time. We never know when a storm is coming and when it will surround us. It can be anything. There are moments in our life that it seems like we will never get out of the storm or that the storm will never end. It could be a broken relationship, sickness, financial matter, death, mental illness, or _____________ . (put a name to your storm)

In Mark 4:35 Jesus said to His disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” This simple statement is easily over looked. Jesus was assuring them a successful voyage across the lake. He didn’t promise the disciples there wouldn’t be a storm; He just said they would make it.

In John, Jesus made a similar statement to us. He said, “in this world you will have trouble. But take heart! For I have overcome the world.” No matter the storm, God promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us. Jesus reassures us earlier in the passage that we will grieve, but our grief will turn to joy. And that we would have peace in the midst of trouble. Jesus even says “Quiet! Be still” to the storm and to our souls.

It is true. I’ve had so much peace over the past couple of months. Peace in the midst of grief with joy. Its emotions that I’d never had thought of that go so hand in hand.

When the storm comes it’s easy to loose heart like the disciples and cry out to God and say “don’t you care if we drown.” God uses the storms. The pain. The struggle.   The brokenness. The brokenness opens our heart. In the doubt, it causes us to see God’s love and grace.

One thing I’ve learned is if we humble ourselves before God. Showing our true brokenness and doubt, we will see God. We need to trust in God and his assurance that He is there with us. And cast all anxiety on Him. Being of sober mind. Meaning having clear thoughts and not being clouded over by my feelings of anxiety, stress or worry but truly putting my faith and trust in God. Handing over those feeling to God and laying them at his feet. It’s easy to be drowned in emotions but it’s not what should guide my faith.

It’s so important to remember the assurances of God. In the storm and out of the storm. In the storm, Jesus is there. It is easy to get caught up in the idea that Jesus must be asleep and not care what happens to us because we don’t see Him doing anything. And all we see are the waves and boxes getting knocked off the boat into the sea.  But Jesus is sure that we will make it through the storm. It’s okay to be honest. Be humble before God, and cast all your fears, doubts, worry and anxiety on Him. He didn’t say that it wasn’t going to be rough. But he said that we will get to the other side.

What is your storm? God wants your heart. He wants you to trust Him in the storm.

Mark 4; John 16:20,33; Hebrews 13:5; 1 Peter 5:6-8