Devotional 08-07-2022

Remaining Still in the Storm

Natural disasters are known for the chaos, panic, and uncertainty they leave in their wake. Similarly, the multitude of negative emotions and thoughts that come with the storms of this life can leave us feeling as helpless as a small boat amid tempestuous weather. Fortunately, the Lord has provided ways by which we can remain still in these storms. Among these are:

Daily reading the Scriptures. In addition to its uses in teaching and correction, God's Word also provides us with encouragement and peace. Within its pages, we can read multiple historical instances of God perfectly providing and protecting His people, as well as His many promises to protect and never forsake us. Thus, reading the Scriptures daily can help us build the faith and hope necessary to withstand the storms of life.
Regularly praying to God. Philippians 4:6 notes that instead of worrying about our needs, we should bring them before the Lord in prayer. This form of honest and fervent prayer is a crucial component of abiding in Christ, which Jesus describes in John 15:7. By regularly praying with God, sharing our needs and fellowshipping with Him, we build an ever-growing trust and dependence on Him that remains strong even amid hardships.
Continually seeking His strength. Although we often attempt to face life's storms on our own, doing so only drains our strength and brings unnecessary frustration, hopelessness, and exhaustion. Fortunately, when we realize our inherent weakness and incapability to support ourselves as the Lord taught the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9, we can then humble ourselves before Him and accept the Holy Spirit's perfect strength. As Romans 8:26 promises, doing so will allow Him to empower us to face even the most trying of circumstances.
Frequently fellowshipping with other believers. In addition to the Holy Spirit, the Lord has also provided our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to help us in our times of need. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, all believers are called to encourage and support one another. Thus, we are to help one another persevere in our trials through encouragement, prayer, worship, and charity.

Thankfully, we are not required to face the storms of this life alone, for we have a Helper, Provider, and Sustainer who promises to always be with us, even in these fiery trials. Daily Scripture reading, regular prayer, constant dependence, and frequent fellowship are all ways through which He provides us the strength, encouragement, and hope we need to remain still in the storm.

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