The Future Lies Beyond the Storm

We often seek comfort, choosing the easiest path. But we know that the meaningful life we desire—purpose, growth, and the story God wants to write through us—usually lies just beyond the storm we are avoiding. This message is a call to step into that storm with faith, courage, and community.

Why Run Into the Storm?

When storms come, our instinct is to seek shelter. But buffalo, remarkably, head straight into the storm. Why? They know that the storm passes faster if they face it directly. Spiritually, the safest path to the life God wants for us is often through the discomfort we avoid. Psalm 23 teaches us that while God offers peace and rest, real growth requires movement. We are not called to live in permanent comfort but to move forward into what God has for us, even through difficult times.

How Walking into the Storm Transforms Us

Hardship teaches us to rely on God, not ourselves. It reveals what or who we truly trust. When we step toward the unknown with faith, we’re not promising perfection but a willingness to be shaped by God.

Guarding the Table: Voices We Invite In

Our inner life is like a table, where different voices compete for our attention. The voice of Jesus is gentle and full of peace, unlike the panic and anxiety that can overwhelm us. To protect our inner space, we must stay in the Word, invite the Holy Spirit as our counselor, and bring destructive thoughts into the light. A strong, supportive community also helps recalibrate our inner dialogue and strengthens us.

Community as a Sanctuary for the Mind

We were not designed for isolation. The most transformative seasons of spiritual growth often happen in the presence of others who love God and love us. A community grounded in Scripture can help us stay grounded and focused on God’s truth.

Learning to Walk Again: Surrender Is a Daily Practice

Surrendering to God is an ongoing process. Whether facing personal hardship or spiritual struggle, we start with a simple prayer: “Help, I can’t do this alone.” Daily surrender involves small, honest prayers, small acts of service, and consistent rhythms of spiritual practice. These build momentum and trust, even when the path is difficult.

Put God First: Lessons from the Lake

Putting God first shows up in the little choices. Like two friends ignoring a prompting to stop fishing, we often find that ignoring God’s nudging leads to frustration. But when we follow His guidance, we experience unexpected blessings. The key is putting God at the center of everything.

Raising Arrows: The Work of Parents, Mentors, and the Church

Parents, mentors, and churches play a key role in preparing the next generation. Like an archer preparing an arrow, parents must be intentional, teaching faith and setting boundaries that help guide children toward God’s purposes. This requires investment, consistency, and, sometimes, healthy tension to propel them forward.

Five Takeaways for the Week

  1. Walk into the storm. Transformation often happens through hardship. 
  2. Protect your inner life. Guard your thoughts and voices that influence you. 
  3. Learn to walk again. Trust God through daily surrender. 
  4. Put God first. Small acts of obedience lead to big changes. 
  5. Parents—aim well. Be intentional with your influence and time. 

Practical Next Steps

  1. Identify one situation you’ve been avoiding and take a step forward. 
  2. Commit to one hour of Scripture reading this week. 
  3. Find an accountability partner to help you stay on track. 
  4. Serve with a heart of obedience, not obligation. 
  5. Establish a family rhythm that prioritizes faith and connection. 

Final Invitation

We are invited to step into the future God is preparing for us. Whether through a hard conversation, small acts of obedience, or reaching out to others, we are not alone. Let’s say yes to God’s calling and move forward, together. There is nothing God cannot do.

 

FAQs

 

1. What does “running into the storm” mean spiritually?

Running into the storm means choosing faith over fear—facing challenges head-on instead of avoiding them. It’s about trusting God’s purpose even in discomfort. Our non denominational church Cleveland helps believers embrace this mindset through prayer, teaching, and community.

2. How can hardship deepen my faith and trust in God?

Hardship reveals where we place our trust. When we walk into difficulties with God’s strength, we grow spiritually and experience His presence more deeply. Many at our church Cleveland OH have found transformation through faith-filled endurance and community support.

3. Why is community essential during tough seasons?

Community reminds us that we’re never alone. Supportive relationships built on Scripture help us stay grounded and encouraged through life’s storms. At our non denominational church in Cleveland, we cultivate these connections to strengthen every believer’s walk with God.

4. How do I practice daily surrender to God?

Daily surrender means trusting God in small choices—through prayer, humility, and obedience. It’s not a one-time act but a daily posture of faith. This principle is central to discipleship at our church Cleveland OH, where spiritual growth happens step by step.

5. How can parents and mentors guide the next generation in faith?

Parents and mentors are called to “raise arrows,” guiding children with love, consistency, and faith-based principles. Our non denominational church Cleveland offers resources and programs that equip families to nurture faith and courage in the next generation.