When Storms Arise  

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 ESV “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.”

Stormy seasons of life are inevitable (John 16:33). So, how do we handle storms of life, so the devil does not take advantage of us to expand and prolong the recovery period? First, draw your strength from the revelation that you are God’s beloved. Be aware and be convinced that God loves you (1 John 3:1, Jeremiah 31:3, Romans 8:35-39). Embrace the power of God’s word to bring comfort and strength (Romans 15:4, Psalm 119:28, Psalm 34:19, and Psalm 23:1-6). Engage in strategic prayers based on God’s word, to pull through the storm (Psalm 34:4-6, Psalm 61:1-3). Maintain a lifestyle and atmosphere of joy. Never lose your joy, which is the source of your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Rejoice in the Lord not in your situation (Philippians 4:4).  Free yourself from a mindset of gloom and doom. No matter what you lose never lose your joy. Enter into the realm of thankfulness. No matter the situation, chose a life of joy. Never forget the ministry of angels to strengthen you during your lowest time. Angels are spoken of in the Scriptures as “ministering spirits,” sent forth to minister for those who are heirs of salvation (Hebrews 1:14). Angels can guide, protect, watch over, deliver, and strengthen believers in time of storm or “wilderness experience” (Matthew 4:11, Luke 22:43, 1 Kings 19:5, Acts 12:7-8, Psalm 91:11). It is also beneficial to seek Godly counsel, in times of storms (Proverbs 11:14; 24:6). Though stormy seasons of life are inevitable, remember that they are temporary and subject to change (2 Corinthians 4:18). Remember that a better season comes after the stormy one (Psalm 30:5). The greater ONE is in you (1 John 4:5); you are an overcomer!