©Joy Dunlap https://joydunlap.com
When the storms of life slam into us like lightning, and the roar in our minds takes on thunderous levels, it can be difficult to find strength.
My first experience in a wave pool was something I’d looked forward to for weeks, then I got stuck in the deep end, pummeled again and again by the relentless waves. Instead of being all fun, it became work to find relief and rest.
Just when I reached out to grab the side of the pool and safety, the force of the waves pushed me under and backwards, twisting me around and trapping me under several floats. I struggled to get to the surface. My strength was depleted. Unlike those with floats riding the powerful waves, I was in the deep end of the pool without anything to hold me afloat. By God’s grace He got me to the ladder to get out safely, but I was exhausted.
In When the World Seems Wobbly, a different childhood experience demonstrates the value of trusting in the one who created our world even when it appears unsteady.
For those who choose to walk with God, these three Step-Steadiers and the Triple T Action Plan can help us find strength even in the storms.
Remember God’s Faithfulness
THINK back and remember when God delivered you through difficult times in the past.
THANK God for specific instances when He showed His love when you were struggling.
A passage of Scripture discovered. An unexpected phone call or package received. A healing given.
A sign of God’s presence.
TALK to God and a trusted friend of faith about your current struggles. Share about instances in the past where God made something happen or gave you encouragement and strength.
I will exalt you, Lord, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. Psalm 30:1 NIV
Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me. You, Lord, brought me up from the realm of the dead; you spared me from going down to the pit. Psalm 30:2-3 NIV
You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever. Psalm 30:11-12 NIV
Rejoice in God’s Goodness
THINK about the qualities of God’s goodness and character and how you see them displayed.
THANK God for specific ways you have experienced His goodness this year.
In His creation. In your home. In your relationships.
The kindness, compassion, and grace He’s given.
TALK to others, yourself and God about what convinces you of the goodness of God and the confidence you have in His mercy, love and faithfulness.
I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Psalm 27:13 NIV
The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me. Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you. Psalm 116:5-7 NIV
What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. Psalm 116:12-14 NIV
Relax in God’s Promises
THINK about what God guarantees when we trust Him. (John 5:24, Isaiah 41:10; 2 Timothy 1:7: James 1:5; Joshua 1:9; John 10:10 remind us of a few of the many.)
THANK God for at least one way He has fulfilled His promises to you.
Two ways. Three ways. Make a list.
His promises kept.
TALK about His promises and why those can provide assurance and peace in the storms.
I will listen to what God the Lord says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants – but let them not turn to folly. Psalm 85:8 NIV
The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does. The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. Psalm 145:13b-14 NIV
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10 NIV
The Triple T action plan is a tool to help us tackle the storms we face but ultimately another T word leads the way.
TRUST
To trust in God – or not – is a choice we make every day.
Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8 NIV
Let’s think and talk about this more:
- When did an actual storm or waves cause you difficulty?
- How do you feel when dealing with the storms of life?
- What experience have you had when you thought “Only God!” when you knew He intervened and impacted your life?
- In what ways have you been reminded lately of God’s goodness and faithfulness?
- Which verse above most reminds you of the strength you have in God?
- Write the following verse. Read it aloud. Bold or circle what God provides and what actions He takes. Underline what we are to do. What is the result?
Praise be to the Lord, for he has heard my cry for mercy.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:6-7 NIV
Remember…
Life is Better When It’s Full – Joy-full, Thank-full, Purpose-full and Friend-full! ™