Finding God in the Storm – By Bermie Dizon

Several months ago, I went on an exciting trip with my brother, Ferdie, to the beautiful paradise of El Nido, Palawan. This place is famous for its breathtaking beauty and amazing island-hopping adventures. We were thrilled to explore every part of it. We had two days of island-hopping fun planned, each promising new and exciting experiences.

On the second day, we started our journey early, heading to the farthest island on a motorized boat with twenty other eager tourists. The trip began smoothly, with the sun shining brightly and the sea sparkling like diamonds. But then, the wind started blowing. It wasn’t just any wind but a fierce, strong gust that turned our peaceful adventure into a wild and suspenseful journey.

The one-hour trip took much longer as our boat struggled through the rough waters. The calm sea transformed into a roaring monster, with waves crashing against the boat and soaking everyone on board. Each huge wave lifted the boat high into the air before dropping it with a heavy thud, making us feel like we might capsize at any moment.

It was a scary experience, filled with moments of fear. The beautiful scenery around us, now covered in mist and sea spray, made everything even more dramatic. Every passenger clung tightly to their seats and life jackets, whispering prayers in their hearts.

As I think back on that day, the memory is vivid—showing the raw power of the sea that drew me closer to God. I found myself praying, “God save us!” and now, looking back, I smile at the experience—but I wasn’t smiling then!  

A Storm in the Life of Paul

The apostle Paul experienced something even more terrifying. In Acts 27:14-15, a fierce wind called the “northeaster” rushed down upon the ship he was on. The wind was so strong that the ship was caught in it and was driven uncontrollably for days. The crew made desperate attempts to stay afloat, but eventually, they ran aground near the island of Malta. The ship was wrecked, and everyone had to swim ashore on pieces of the broken vessel.

Malta wasn’t their intended destination, but it’s where they ended up. Storms can do that—wash you ashore in unfamiliar places, among unfamiliar people. However, Paul soon discovered that Malta was full of opportunities. The islanders welcomed them, and Paul found that God had sent him there for a reason. The father of the island’s leading man was sick, and Paul prayed for him, resulting in his healing. After that, many other sick people came to Paul and were healed (Acts 28:7-9).

If it hadn’t been for the storm, Paul wouldn’t have ended up on Malta. God’s plans weren’t hindered by the storm. Instead, He used it to lead Paul to a place where amazing things could happen.

Finding Purpose in the Storm

Think about the people of Malta—they may have been praying for help, wondering if anyone would come. Little did they know that their answer would arrive in the form of a storm. While Paul was praying on the sea, trusting that God would lead him to his destination, God was steering him to be the answer to someone else’s prayers.

Are you in a storm right now? Are you aware of the unexpected places it’s taking you and the new people it’s introducing you to? When you’re feeling frustrated or confused about where life’s latest storm has taken you, remember that God is using the storm to connect your life with His purpose. The storm may be the tool God uses to answer your prayers while also using you to bless others.

Storms in life can seem frightening and chaotic, but they never shipwreck God’s plans for us. He uses even the most turbulent times to lead us to places of purpose, where we can bless others and be blessed ourselves.

 Adapted from “God in Every Step” available at Amazon.com. Bermie Dizon is a husband, father, grandfather and retired pastor living in Southern California.