Strength in the Storm

Strength in the Storm


“And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, ‘The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor.’” — Judges 6:12 (ESV)


Life brings storms—times when everything feels like it’s falling apart. During these moments, we may want to escape or wish for things to improve. But the story of Gideon in Judges 6 offers a powerful lesson. Though Gideon was hiding from the Midianites, God called him a mighty warrior. In the midst of fear, God didn’t call him to hide; He called him to rise. Sometimes, storms don’t come to defeat us, but to prepare us for something greater.


We often wonder why we face storms, but they aren’t random. God allows hardship to shape us, to push us beyond our comfort zones, and to grow our strength and character. Like Gideon, we might not fully understand why we’re facing trials, but God’s purpose is far bigger than we can see. The storms help break through the limits of our understanding, forcing us to grow into who He wants us to become.


When in a storm, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. It may seem like things will never improve, but our hardships are not meaningless. James 1:2-4 encourages us, “Count it all joy… for the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Just like gold is refined by fire, our faith is strengthened by testing. God’s goal isn’t our outward success but our inward transformation. The trials we face are meant to build us, not break us. When we trust God through the storm, we are being prepared for something far greater than we can imagine.


Gideon didn’t feel strong when God called him, yet God wasn’t asking him to rely on his own strength. Instead, He called him to depend on God’s strength. The same is true for us. The storms we face are not meant to destroy us but to develop us. When you feel overwhelmed, remember that your trial is preparation for something bigger. Jesus explains in Matthew 13:18-23 that trials can strengthen our faith. The storms are part of God’s process of nurturing us, so we can bear fruit for His kingdom.


Psalm 46:1 assures us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” When facing trials, we are never alone. God is with us, providing the strength we need to endure. Storms don’t last forever, but the character formed through them becomes the foundation for our future. Just as trees grow stronger with each storm, we too gain strength and resilience through life’s trials. God is refining us for the greater purpose He has prepared.


As you reflect on your own journey, consider how you’ve responded to storms. Do you see them as growth opportunities, or obstacles to avoid? Can you trust that God is working through your trials to shape your character and prepare you for His purpose?


Prayer:

Lord, thank You for being with me in the storm. Help me embrace the challenges I face, knowing You are building my character and preparing me for Your greater purpose. Strengthen my faith, and help me trust that You are working for my good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Scripture References:
Judges 6:12, James 1:2-4, Matthew 13:18-23, Psalm 46:1