Storms of Life
Acts 27:13-20 (NLT) When a light wind began blowing from the south, the sailors thought they could make it. So they pulled up anchor and sailed close to the shore of Crete. 14But the weather changed abruptly, and a wind of typhoon strength (called a “northeaster”) burst across the island and blew us out to sea. 15The sailors couldn’t turn the ship into the wind, so they gave up and let it run before the gale… 18The next day, as gale-force winds continued to batter the ship, the crew began throwing the cargo overboard. 19The following day they even took some of the ship’s gear and threw it overboard. 20The terrible storm raged for many days, blotting out the sun and the stars, until at last all hope was gone.
Storms are Inevitable
John 16:33 (NLT) I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
Storms are Unpredictable
Jeremiah 4:20 (NLT) Waves of destruction roll over the land, until it lies in complete desolation. Suddenly my tents are destroyed; in a moment my shelters are crushed.
Storms are Impartial
Matthew 5:45b (NLT) For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike.
Storms are Temporary
Hebrews 10:35-38 (NLT) So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! 36Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. 37“For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. 38And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.”
Psalm 126:1-6 (NLT) When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! 2We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” 3Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy! 4Restore our fortunes, Lord, as streams renew the desert. 5Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. 6They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.
Psalm 126:1-6 (MSG) It seemed like a dream, too good to be true, when God returned Zion’s exiles. We laughed, we sang, we couldn’t believe our good fortune. We were the talk of the nations— “God was wonderful to them!” God was wonderful to us; we are one happy people.
4-6And now, God, do it again— bring rains to our drought-stricken lives So those who planted their crops in despair will shout hurrahs at the harvest, So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.
