Pastor column: There are hidden blessings in every storm

In Matthew chapter 14, we find the disciples in the grip of a fierce storm. They’re in that storm because they have been commanded by the Lord to cross the Sea of Galilee, (vs. 22). They are in the will of the Lord, and yet they are struggling against the storm and unable to make headway.

Have you ever found yourself stuck in one of life's storms and no matter how hard you try, it seems that you can’t make any headway? We all have times like that! It seems like the storm will never end and that no possible good that can come from what you’re facing. Thankfully there’s good news. While the storms of life are never pleasant, they do produce certain benefits in our lives. I don’t know what kind of storm you are facing, but I do know that the Lord has a purpose in allowing that storm in your life.

The storms of life reveal the Savior; “… and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake” (vs. 24-25). Jesus came with a message (vs. 27). He came with a word of peace — “Take courage!” He came with a word of power — “It is I.” He came to them with a word of potential — “Don’t be afraid!” The storm reveals the Savior to us. When He comes He gives us the same message of hope that He gave to the disciples that stormy night.

We must get hold of the fact that Jesus is in control of every area of our lives, that He is God, and that He possesses all power, then we will trust Him fully through all the storms of life. The storms of life are a blessing because they reveal the Savior.

The storms of life testify of the power of Jesus. He calmed the storm! He didn't say a thing. He just got into the boat with the disciples and the sea was calmed. The Lord will do the same in your life! He’s in control of the storms of life.

The storms of life testify of the person of Jesus. When Jesus calmed the storm, the disciples knew that they were in the presence of God. When Jesus and Peter climbed into the boat, the wind died down and “then those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘Truly You are the Son of God’” (vs. 32-33). The disciples testify that Jesus is God and that He is in control of all the affairs of life. When the storms come, they bring us to the place the disciples found themselves … on our knees in worship before Him.

I don't know the storm you’re facing, but I know the One who still walks on water and can calm your storm. Bring your need to Jesus and let Him have His way in your life. Do that right now!

Rev. J. Patrick Street is the lead pastor of Redeemer Church in Marion. He can be reached at coachpatstreet@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Pastor column: The storms of life are a blessing