“When it rains, it pours”
Have you ever found yourself dealing with rough circumstances you believe cannot get any worse, but then it does?
It can be miserable, frustrating, and overcoming.
I can remember a few times in particular that I found myself in what seemed like never-ending trials. When I would think about my circumstances, I could not help but think of the popular saying, “When it rains, it pours.”
Truly, in trials, it pours.
Storms
Why is it that hard times are referred to as storms?
First, let’s dive into the idea of storms. There is something about storms that feel eerie, dark, long-lasting, and dreary. By definition, a storm is a violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds and usually rain, thunder, lightning, or snow. When we are in the midst of trials that seem to be violently whirling, it is easy to become weary.
When we look at storms Biblically, we can see that storms are a powerful metaphor. One specific example of storms being used as a powerful message can be found in Luke 8:22-25. In this specific passage, the disciples were on a boat when strong winds and a billowing storm came over them. They began to fear for their lives and found Jesus asleep. Can you imagine both your physical body as well as your anxieties being tossed rapidly, just to find Jesus asleep? Jesus awoke to His disciples in a state of pure anxiety. Jesus calmed the storm and said to His followers, “O ye of little faith.” Yikes. Have you ever had minimal faith in the midst of a tossing boat and in the midst of trials? Jesus called out their faith, and for me, I see that as a reassurance that my Savior has not forgotten me in my tossing ship. I need only to cling to faith and hope that he will carry me through.
Dear reader, the moment that the disciples turned to the Master, He calmed the storm.
Whenever I find myself in storms, I find that I pray more vigorously, sing more passionately, and believe more zealously. My Jesus steps in and calms the storms in His timing. He comforts me in the midst of the storm, but the experience does not just end there.
Comfort in affliction
Now we can relate these emotions exposed through storms to 2 Corinthians 1:1-11. Paul is writing to the church of Corinth, and his words might just be some of the most beautiful words ever written. Paul stated, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, .who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God”
(2 Corinthians 1:3-4). We are able to use our past for the purpose of the Kingdom.
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Paul went on to explain that his afflictions were so grievous that he wanted to die. In this very moment, Jesus stepped in the picture. Christ Jesus gave Paul comfort and hope to continue even in the midst of afflictions.
Precious readers, you have comfort in Jesus to continue as well as comfort others.
Now, we must use this same comfort to comfort others. We are left with the responsibility to exhort, encourage, and comfort those who are facing serious afflictions. How can we comfort others, you may ask? I have based an action plan off what Paul wrote to the church of Corinth in verses 3-11.
Action plan
1. Reflect on the storms you have overcome
At times, this can be uncomfortable to look back at past trials. In other cases, it can be rather encouraging to reflect on all that Christ has helped us overcome. Whatever the case may be, it is important to revisit the emotions you felt, the encouragement you received (whether it be through song, scripture, counsel, or friend).
2. Comfort with the comfort you have received
The comfort you choose can be a prayer, word of encouragement, token of love, or even sitting in silence. Each person may prefer different methods of comfort, it may be necessary to find what works best to comfort each individual. Sometimes all it takes is letting someone know that they are not alone in their battles.
3. Pray for the afflicted
There is power in prayer. Paul stated that the more we pray, the more we see prayers answered which is very encouraging. Continue in prayer for those facing enormous trials and hardships. This is the most powerful thing you can do for someone who is struggling immensely.