Sandstorms

“Storms help to make the sailors sturdy, and trials help to make Christians strong in faith.” -Charles Spurgeon

Sandstorms appear out of nowhere in the desert. They are entirely unexpected and leave little time to prepare. As the wind gathers speed, the sand and debris begin to swirl, visibility dwindles to almost zero, and shelter is essential. I wonder if Jesus ever faced sandstorms in the desert.

Years ago I visited a beach known for its strong winds, a favorite of kitesurfers. On one particular day, the winds quickly picked up with such force that I became slightly alarmed. Looking down the shoreline, all that was visible was a wall of swirling sand. The grains began to pelt against my skin, and I quickly sought cover until the storm passed.

An unobstructed view is one of the beauties of the desert’s vast space. It allows me to see for miles. Deserts and mountaintops offer clarity and my perspective changes when I look at a situation from these vantage points.

As I stand with Jesus, I catch a glimpse in the distance of what appears to be a sandstorm. I can see the clouds of dust churning. Jesus and I stand miles away, but I can still feel the peripheral effects of the wind and the blowing sand. Being with Jesus gives me a feeling of security, and I know I am safe with Him. He is my shelter and I do not worry about the storm.

Unavoidable storms

‘Why am I watching this storm, Jesus? I don’t understand what this is about.’ “Storms are unavoidable. Some you will walk through, some will remain at a distance, and others will require shelter. Sufficient grace is given for each storm,” He replies. ‘Life’s storms,’ I sigh. They appear when I least expect them, just like the sandstorm I experienced years ago on the beach. Most times, I cannot escape life’s storms and the stinging effects of the pelting sands.

I remember the scripture from the Gospel of Mark, chapter 4. The disciples, seasoned fishermen, were caught in an unexpected storm. It must have been quite a storm with winds, swells, thunder, and lightning to terrify seasoned seamen. When they cried out to Jesus, He immediately calmed the winds. I consider whether Jesus silenced the physical storm they were experiencing or did He silence their fears and give them the courage to face the storm, perhaps both. Either way, fear is overcome by faith.

I look at Jesus and realize that walking through life’s storms is more manageable when I am firmly rooted in the belief that He is by my side. Jesus reminds me that He is my guide and shelter in the storm. And His grace is sufficient to walk me through the winds and the pelting sand.

Scripture:

“The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him. (Nahum 1:7)

Reflection:

1. Reflecting on a time when a sandstorm came your way, what did you do to get through it? Who did you rely on? Did you rely on Jesus? Record.

2. Where is the Lord calling you to greater faith and trust in Him? Journal your insights.

3. Close your eyes and imagine the Lord with you, either in a past storm or a current one. What does the Lord want you to know? Can you rest in Him?

Another blog on the storms we face – Silencing the Storm