The Gift of a Storm

It is interesting that no matter where we're at in life or where we live we will always face some kind of troubles. Whether it be financial, emotional, physical or even spiritual every storm comes with a hardship. And no matter how long the storm stays there is always damage and maybe even a few casualties. Yet each passing storm that comes we somehow get a little stronger from the past one.

You see a storm gives more than trouble it gives a gift. As odd as that sounds, sometimes it is hard to see let alone find but it is there. This gift is something to be treasured because the value of it is irreplaceable and worth having. Even though in the midst of the storm it is bitter sweet knowing that you are receiving this gift even though we don't want it nor think we need it.

So what is this gift? I honestly can't say - you see each person is given a separate one that means something different. Just because 2 people experience the same thing doesn't mean that they learned the same thing. However, I can say one thing that is common in the storm, we ALL show our TRUE colors. In the end; here are some of the things that we either earn or learn from the storm even though it is not limited to these: endurance, perseverance, a lesson learned, and wisdom.

I think we are put through these storms to be tested. Not for a letter grade or a pass/fail but a test I grade myself. In the end the question is, "Am I closer to God or not?" I think this verse sums it up:

James 1:2-6

Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. [3] You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. [4] So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. [5] If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it. [6] Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought.