Finding Stillness in the Midst of the Storm

Life can sometimes feel like a storm, with winds howling and rain pouring down all around us. In these turbulent times, it's easy to become overwhelmed by our circumstances. Take it from me, I've cowered in the midst of a few storms in my life. But through each experience I've found that the key to navigating these storms has been discovering the profound peace that comes from stillness in the presence of Jesus. Now, at first this might sound to you like something "those spiritual people" might say,  but it's true and very possible for you to discover for yourself. The journey has transformed my life, allowing me to find tranquility even in the chaos.

Chaos in the Storm

Challenges aren't something I normally shy away from. My upbringing and my God given perspective had helped me to brave challenges from a young age however, there was a particularly challenging period of transition that lingered even until now. Suddenly, everything felt like it was going wrong. I know the aim of the storm was to make me feel trapped, as if I were in the eye of a hurricane with chaos swirling around me with no means of escape. I sought solace, but distractions were temporary, I summoned the courage to ask for help but the help I needed was withheld. Yet, where all else seemed to fail, I turned to my faith, looking for stillness amid the storm through my relationship with Jesus. 

Discovering Stillness Through Prayer

As I focused on quiet prayer, poured my heart out to Jesus in worship and held on to His promises, the turbulence of the storm grew less threatening. Each day, I discovered that these moments with Jesus became my refuge. The more I talked with Jesus through song and prayer, often with tear soaked cheeks, the more my heart opened to His reassuring peace. I would withstand and overcome the storm because Christ is with me. 

Jesus is always ready to provide comfort and direction during our life's storms.

Embracing Scripture for Strength

Choosing verses that reassure me of His promises has been strengthening for me. Several verses have been especially uplifting during the stormy season including Psalm 146:2 "I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live." Can we praise Jesus through our storms? Or do we become bitter and resistant to His comfort? This verse in Psalm146 was a welcome reminder that my life whether in the stormiest night or the blissful day is secured eternally with my Saviour. It stirs me to look back at all that God has done for me, and His ability to sustain me even in the present storm. John 16:33 also became a place of rest: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Jesus doesn't promise that we will never struggle, but He does promise that because of Him we can prevail through the struggles. These reminders brought me strength to face my challenges head-on.

Jesus is always present to guide us toward trust and stillness.

Practicing Mindfulness in God's Creation

I love nature. Nature has a way of drawing our attention from our inner world unto the much larger world around us. And that's not always a bad thing. I enjoy walking in nearby parks, and sometimes simply sitting down with scripture and a journal absorbing the beauty around me and documenting every good thing. With my senses I take in the smells, the sights and sounds of nature and this helps me connect with Jesus in a deeper way, almost always bringing praise and thanksgiving to my heart. These walks became sacred times for reflection and an invitation to moments of stillness.

Jesus invites us to experience His peaceful presence in His Creation.

A Community of Support

An important aspect of my journey was welcoming the support of the community. As a giver it's not always easy to admit you need to receive. But God knows what we need even before we ask. During my times of struggle, I was so blessed by the unexpected text messages and phone calls from new friends. Their prayers and words of encouragement were a source of upliftment. Every one of them served as a reminder of the heart of the Father who never leaves us abandoned.

Jesus blesses us through people He places in our lives at the right time and for the right purpose.

The Ongoing Journey of Stillness

As I continue along this journey, I understand that practicing stillness amidst life's storms is a lifelong process. Our storms may not quickly cease, but I have learned to stand firm in my faith, knowing Jesus is always with me. When I sense the winds beginning to howl, I remind myself of the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7) and lean into His presence.

The storm may still rage, but with Jesus by my side, I refuse to be overwhelmed.

Your Path to Finding Peace

Finding stillness in life's storms is a personal journey, requiring patience and persistence. My experience has taught me that the key is nurturing a close relationship with Jesus—through prayer, scripture, and community .

If you are in a turbulent season, I encourage you to seek quiet moments with Jesus. Embrace the power of prayer, surround yourself with supportive friends and family, and immerse yourself in the beauty of God's creation.

Remember, Jesus is always there, helping you navigate the storm. May you discover the peace that comes from stillness, trusting in His presence amid life's greatest tempests.