God works in mysterious ways. Take, for example, the fierce storm Jesus' disciples faced on the Sea of Galilee (Matthew 8:18, 23-27; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25). The storm was so turbulent, that all the disciples thought they were going to lose their lives.
But Jesus intentionally led the disciples he loved straight into that storm (Matthew 8:18; Mark 4:35; Luke 8:22). Why? He intended to use that storm to reveal himself as God—as the One with authority over the wind and the sea—and, therefore, as the One we can trust.
None of us gladly goes into a storm thinking, "This is great!" Storms can by scary. Trials can be painful. Affliction hurts. But, when we pause and notice Jesus' good purposes in and through our storms, we realize those same storms are a mysterious gift of God that help to grow our trust and faith in him.
Have you been in the center of a fierce storm lately? Take a moment to remind yourself who you belong to—remember his goodness; remember his sovereignty; remember his love for you—and renew your trust in him. The storm might not disappear right away or at all, but be assured, "in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).