Finding Peace in Life’s Storms

Storms—whether literal or metaphorical—can feel overwhelming. They shake us, leave us anxious, and make us feel like we are drowning in fear and uncertainty. But the good news is, you are not alone. The same God who commands the winds and the waves loves you deeply and can rescue you from any storm you face.

Here are two lessons I’ve learned that can help you hold on when life feels chaotic.

My Personal Storm

Half of 2019 was a season of emotional and spiritual turbulence for me. I carried unresolved trauma from a c-section with my first child. When my doctor recommended a second c-section for my next baby, intense fear, anxiety, and grief surged inside me, threatening any peace I had left. I tried to handle it on my own, distancing myself from God, and found myself sinking in hopelessness.

Yet, God’s faithfulness is not dependent on me. Even in the midst of my despair, He reached out and rescued me from the storm.

The image of a storm came to me repeatedly during this time, but the passage that struck me most was Matthew 14:22–33, where Jesus walks on water.

Matthew 14:22–33 Recap

Most know this passage as “Jesus Walks on Water.” While Jesus’ authority over nature is incredible, what stood out to me was His heart to rescue His people.

In the story, Jesus approaches His disciples on the sea while their boat is battered by waves and wind. They are terrified, thinking they see a ghost, but Jesus calls out, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Peter steps out of the boat in faith—but the winds overwhelm him, and he begins to sink. Immediately, Jesus reaches out and saves him.

Lesson #1: Taking Your Eyes Off Jesus Brings Fear

Peter began to sink when he focused on the winds instead of Jesus. I could completely relate. I allowed my past trauma to consume my thoughts, spiraling into fear and anxiety. My eyes were off Jesus, who offers peace and miracles regardless of the storm. When our focus shifts to the chaos around us instead of Christ, fear takes hold.

Lesson #2: Jesus Is Faithful Even When We Are Not

Peter faltered, yet Jesus saved him. God is faithful and forgiving, even when we stumble. He corrects, restores, and gives second chances. Just as Peter’s life was transformed despite his failures, Jesus reached out to me in my fear. He guided me back to Him, helping me experience healing, peace, and restoration.

He Will Lead You to Still Waters

During this storm, I sought counseling at a place called Still Waters. The verse Psalm 23:1–2—“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters”—came vividly to mind. I realized God had literally led me to “still waters” to find restoration.

Though I still carry some disappointment, I am grateful for the growth that came from fixing my eyes on Jesus during the storm.

If you are weary, He will guide you to still waters to find rest for your soul—all you need to do is keep your eyes on Him. If you haven’t yet, cry out to Jesus. He calms the storms, brings peace amid chaos, and rescues your soul.

Reflect and Connect

1. What circumstances have threatened to take your eyes off Jesus?

2. What have you learned about God and yourself from storms you’ve faced?

3. What promise from God do you cling to during trouble?