When the news came, I knew that the situation was beyond my control.

I moved to the upstate of South Carolina in the early 1980s, and jobs were scarce. I had vowed never to work in a textile mill again. Unfortunately, this was about the only place hiring. But they, too, were experiencing the effects of imports and a slowing economy. I was transferred from plant to plant. Then came the day when there was nowhere else to transfer me, and I heard the word no one likes to hear: layoff.

Many situations in life are beyond my ability to control. Jesus' disciples found themselves in one when they encountered a fierce storm:

Mark 4:38 – Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, "Teacher, don't you care that we're going to drown?" (NLT)

Stormy situations may be out of my control, but they're never out of God's control. He's the sovereign of the universe and of my life. Not only does He have a worldwide plan but He also has a unique plan for my life. While Satan may hurl a few storms my way as I travel life's seas, none will careen me off the course God intends unless I choose to let them.

Stormy circumstances stretch my faith as it did the disciples'. Unfortunately, it was only after they had exhausted all their efforts to help themselves that they then turned to Jesus. I've made the same mistake. I tend to handle what I can, when the best method would have been to consult Him in the beginning.

Through the storms of life, I've witnessed God's care and concern. My duty is not to question the storms but simply to trust God to see me through them. Are you trying to endure life's storms in your own strength?

Prayer: Thank You, Sovereign God, for not allowing the storms of life to blow us off Your course for us. We ask for strength to endure and trust. Amen.

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About the author:

Martin Wiles <mandmwiles@gmail.com>
Greenwood, South Carolina, USA
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