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Unexpected Storms

Feb 1, 2026    Buddy Thompson

We often assume that following God faithfully will shield us from life's difficulties, but this powerful exploration of Mark chapter 4 reveals a profound truth: sometimes obedience places us directly in the path of unexpected storms. The disciples found themselves terrified in a fierce storm not because they had sinned or made poor choices, but precisely because they were doing exactly what Jesus asked them to do. This message challenges our assumptions about the relationship between faithfulness and hardship, reminding us that not every storm is punitive—some are formative. While Jesus slept peacefully on a cushion, the experienced fishermen panicked, their fear causing them to question whether He even cared about their survival. Yet this contrast reveals something beautiful: fear is a normal human response to crisis, and we shouldn't let anyone question our spirituality because we feel afraid. The key is not eliminating fear but keeping our eyes on Jesus even while the waves crash around us. When Christ finally spoke those three words—'Peace, be still'—the disciples moved from terror to amazement, discovering a deeper truth about who He really was. Our unexpected storms create opportunities to witness God's power in ways calm waters never could, teaching us that His silence doesn't mean absence and that His greatest work often happens in our weakest moments.