By Vanessa Small

It was the first time a hurricane had hit the Sunshine State in eleven years. Being a new resident of Florida, it was my first experience with such a storm. We took the advice and prepared properly - stocking up on nonperishable food and water, waiting in an endless line at the gas station to fill our tank, checking the batteries in our flashlights, making sure our cell phones and devices were charged, and staying inside away from windows. Our eyes were on the radar, tracking the storm, hoping we would not lose power.

Even though I do not live right along the coastline, we still experienced the heavy rains and high-force winds. The worst of the storm came in the middle of the night, as the hurricane made landfall. It was hard to sleep with the rain beating against the windows, the winds gusting, and the threat of possible tornadoes keeping me awake. It was difficult to rest in the middle of the storm, but I finally did fall asleep. When I woke up, the sun was shining, and except for a slight wind, it was calm.

When Peter took his eyes off Jesus and started focusing on the raging wind, he started to sink.

My first experience with a hurricane reminded me of another storm in the bible. The disciples were in a boat when the wind and waves became turbulent. Jesus came to them, walking on the water. Peter began to walk out on the water to Jesus. As long as he kept his eyes on Jesus, even in the middle of the storm, he was OK. But when Peter took his eyes off Jesus and started focusing on the raging wind, he started to sink.

Will we allow the storm to take control of us and take our focus away?

So what do we do when storms are raging in our life? “Storms” can refer to more than just the destruction from a natural disaster. They can also refer to broken family relationships, physical illness, financial instability, and other uncertain and troubling situations in our lives. The secret is to keep the eyes of our heart on Jesus. Here are a few promises to remember in the storm:

• Jesus promises to be with us and never leave us. He may not always calm the storm we are in, but he will hold our hand so we need not be afraid. (See Joshua 1:5-9; Isaiah 41:10-13.)
• As we give our worries to Jesus, he gives us peace beyond understanding, allowing us to rest in the midst of the storm. (See Philippians 4:6-7; 2 Peter 5:7.)
• Christ is in control and will help us as we step through the storm. His light and love are brighter and stronger than the darkness. (See Matthew 8:23-27; John 1:4-5; John 8:12; Romans 8:37-39.)

Will we allow the storm to take control of us and take our focus away? Or will we instead trust Jesus, even in the midst of the raging storm?

Discussion Question: How can we support others who are facing “storms” in their lives and encourage them to keep their eyes on Jesus?

For further study: Matthew 14:22-33; Hebrews 12:1-3