Through The Storm

A little while back, we had a storm in the gulf, Debby. Over here in Pensacola we did not get any real effects from the storm itself but it did send some waves. Sunday morning it was flat but by around 2 pm we started seeing the swell fill in. It was a slap knee gorgeous day but knowing the swell was on the increase I took my time and loaded up to head out. After a brief discussion with a few of the crew we decided on a spot and all met up. Super long and playful chest + lefts running down the beach. We were out there in pristine conditions, crystal clear emerald green water, rainbows showing in the distance to the east, dolphins boosting out the back, only a handful of surfers out and perfect waves on tap til dark, we were frothing. 

After about 20 minutes, we noticed the rainbows getting closer and a possible squall line or outer band heading our way. No big deal, just some rain and well we are already wet! Then before we could even think about it again, it was on us. Rain pelting down, wind ripping – I heard one guy in the lineup go “are we in a waterspout?!”. Most of the people got out and went in, but a few of us stuck it out, embraced the storm and pulled our hoods down or hid under our boards to shield our eyes from the pelting rain and wind. About another 15 min of battling the storm with almost no waves ridden, the wind beat down the swell and it actually seemed like it was a lot smaller. Slowly but surely it passed and things calmed down, the waves started pumping and there were only a few of us out, 100 yard glassy head high lefts were the reward for the brave few who had stuck it out and braved the storm.

Storms or times of trouble are inevitable parts of our lives. But we have a choice in how we respond. We can choose to run away from it, much like Jonah did or we can place our trust in God’s plan and face the troubles head on, knowing that whatever troubles may come they are for a purpose -God’s purpose- to grow us and bring us closer to Him. When storms come in our lives, they can make us question everything – our lives, our choices, our faith. Much like that day out in the water, How we respond to the storm can be the difference between witnessing and being a part of Gods glorious perfection or totally missing out on the perfect waves he has in store – just on the other side – if only we hold firm to Him and face the storm with unwavering confidence in Christ’s promise. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬