StormProofSample

Paul and his maritime companions had spent over two weeks in the “storm of the century” when, finally, they heard some breakers upon the land. The good news was that they were close to land! The bad news was...they were close to land! 

What did this crew of tired, waterlogged men do?“They cast four anchors from the stern and wished for daybreak.” That one phrase holds all the wisdom that you will ever need for any treacherous and long- lasting storm in life. 

The first anchor that protects my life from the jagged shoreline of circumstances is the Word of God. The eternal truth, divine wisdom, and inherent healing power that are found on the sacred pages of the Bible determine my primary anchor of protection. 

The second anchor that holds my life steady in the appalling monsoons of life is a choice to worship even in the storm. My friend, stop murmuring or moaning—and start worshipping! The people of God are a people who sing; it is what we are known for. We sing when others weep and we worship when others complain. We praise when others panic and we make melody in our hearts when others allow dread to fill their souls.

My third anchor is a commitment to prayer. Prayer is a place of powerful influence and sweet communion; prayer is the force that makes hell quiver in fear and causes heaven to rise to its feet and joyfully applaud. 

My fourth anchor is the power of the Holy Spirit. You will never make it through any storm in life, large or small, if you don’t tap into the power of God’s Spirit—and allow yourself to be changed by it! 

After Paul’s weakened sailing vessel hit a reef and began to be torn apart, all 276 passengers and crew (see Acts 27:37) either swam or found something to grab onto as the waves washed them upon the shore. They were alive, just as God had promised! The next time you are in over your head, think of Paul’s sea journey and remind yourself that God will fulfill His promise to always be with you and carry you through.