Over the past two weeks, we have experienced a lot of wind, snow, and stormy weather. This morning, on New Year’s Day, it appears that the winter storms have subsided for now.. As I reflect on the last couple of weeks and take in the calm and beauty of today, I pause to consider the storms that come to everyone’s life. Some arrive slowly like gathering clouds, while others break upon us without warning. They come in the form of illness, grief, broken relationships, financial hardship, or seasons of deep discouragement. Even followers of Christ are not exempt from storms. Jesus reminded His disciples, “In this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NKJV).

The good news is not that storms never come — but that Jesus is present in the midst of them.

In Mark 4:35–41 (NKJV), we read that the disciples found themselves in a fierce storm. Though the waves crashed and fear filled their hearts, Jesus was with them in the boat. They cried out, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” Mark 4:38(NKJV). Jesus arose, rebuked the wind, and spoke to the sea, “Peace, be still!” The storm ceased — but the greater lesson was not the calming of the sea — it was the calming of their hearts.

Storms reveal what we truly trust. They expose our fears, our weaknesses, and our need for God. They remind us that we are not in control — but He is.

Sometimes God calms the storm around us. Other times, He calms the storm within us.

David testified to this truth: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 (NKJV). Storms drive us closer to the heart of God, where we learn dependence, humility, and faith. We discover that His grace is truly sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9).

But what happens when the storm is over?

Many seasons of life do not simply end — they transition. When Noah stepped out of the ark after the flood, the storm had passed — yet a new beginning lay before him. God placed a rainbow in the sky as a covenant promise (Genesis 9:12–16). The end of a storm is not merely relief — it is an invitation.

When the storm is over, give thanks and walk forward in renewed obedience!

After Jesus calmed the storm, the disciples’ faith deepened. They asked, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?” Mark 4:41 (NKJV). Storms remind us that our lives belong to Him — and the calm afterward calls us to walk more faithfully than before.

If you are in a storm today, take courage: Christ is in the boat. If your storm has passed, lift your eyes in hope and ask, “Lord, what would You have me do next?”

The same God who sustained you through the wind and waves now leads you into a new season — not just delivered but transformed.

Grover Duling – CBC Executive Board