Battling the Storm
Read Luke 8:22-25
We all face storms in life. Sometimes it seems like a new storm every day. Job 14:1 says man’s life is short and full of trouble. There three types of storms wean encounter: self-inflicted, satanic opposition, and storms that come to increase our faith.
Self-Inflicted
God called Jonah to preach in Nineveh, but he didn’t want to go to Nineveh. This struggle began within him. Instead of obeying God, he went in the completely opposite direction. Jonah, thinking he was off the hook, went down into the ship to sleep. That’s when the storm came. It was so bad that Jonah was thrown overboard. But, God didn’t give up on him. He brought the whale to protect him and carry him to safety.
As Jonah was in the belly of the whale, he began to pray. The original Hebrew word used here is tefillah. This is more than just uttering words. It’s a labor of the heart. The only way out of a self-inflicted storm is to cry out from the uttermost depths of your soul to the Lord, who is mighty to save!
Satanic Opposition
Satanic oppression brings resistance against your calling. Satan will always try to stop your prayer, ministry, commitment, and feeling of worth. He knows your whole family’s background. He knows your past, your weaknesses, and anything that can break you down. The evidence of what God did yesterday begins to float away, and the ship looks like it’s about to sink. But, hold on! Jesus is going to walk on top of everything that is trying to take you under!
We wrestle against the powers of this dark world. But, the weapons of our warfare are not carnal! So, as you fight these military strategies of Satan, put on the whole armor of God so that you may stand strong! We have been given dominion over the kingdom of darkness! Open up your mouth and declare what God is going to do. You set the day in order!
The Storm to Increase Your Faith
There are ways to know if a storm is coming to increase your faith. First, Jesus enters the boat. You’re not doing this by yourself. When you don’t hear God, start talking to Him. When you don’t feel Him, start speaking the name of Jesus! It appears you’re by yourself, and the boat is filling up with water. He’s still there, waiting for you to call on Him! When there’s a storm, and you cry out to Jesus, a peace comes upon you that the world cannot understand. But the world does see it, and your faith becomes a witness to those around you!
Understanding the storm will prepare us for battle. Walk in obedience to His calling, take up the full armor every day, and trust Him in the storm. You will see Him work in ways you will hardly believe.
We love y’all and we’re praying for you. As always, we’re saving you a seat at Community Family Church!
Pastor Tom
Want to receive news and information from Tommy Bates Ministries? Then sign-up below, it’s free!
