Mark 6:45–48 “And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship… and he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them…”
The storm wasn’t a surprise—it was scheduled. Jesus constrained the disciples to get into the boat. He knew the wind would be contrary. And still, He sent them. Why? Because sometimes storms are part of the plan. Not to sink us, but to shape us. Not to punish, but to prepare.
I remember sitting with a young man from our church who had just lost his job. He said, “I did everything right… why would God let this happen?” I shared this passage with him. Sometimes, following Jesus leads us straight into a storm—but never without purpose. In the storm, we learn to trust. In the storm, we find that His presence is enough. That young man later said, “Losing that job was the best thing that ever happened to me spiritually.” Maybe the same will be true for you. God doesn’t waste storms.
Ron Hamilton was diagnosed with cancer—a life-altering moment that could have marked the end of his ministry. But instead of letting that trial defeat him, he allowed God to use it to shape his life and calling. Out of that painful season, a powerful ministry was born—one that reached countless boys and girls with the message of the gospel. Later in his ministry, he penned a heartfelt song that reflected this journey, saying…
“God never moves without purpose or plan when trying His servant and molding a man. Give thanks to the Lord though your testing seems long, in darkness He giveth a song.
O Rejoice in the Lord, he makes no mistake. He knoweth the end of each path that I take. For when I am tried, and purified.
I shall come forth as gold.”
📖 Scripture Reading: Romans 5:3–5, Isaiah 43:1–2, 1 Peter 1:6–7, James 1:2–4, John 9:1–3