4 Ways to Survive the Storm

 
Guest Contributor:  Rutchelle Alexandre
 
No one ever EVER said the Christian walk would be easy, and we all ending up facing tough times. It’s almost inevitable, and for the most part unavoidable. We’ve all been through trials that test not only our character, but our will power. We face storms that have left us weary, and storms that have even made us reconsider our walk with Christ. Heck, half of the storms I’ve encountered I’m surprised that I even survived!
 
All the glory to God, because he will never leave his children, even when we think he has left us, he’s still there. If you surrender and allow God to take control during the stormy seasons, and fully trust in him, your outlook on life will never be the same.
 
Two important things you must know in general is that: (1) God is always in control and he will never leave you or forsake you. Just like Jesus calmed the storm when Peter and some of the disciples were in the Sea of Galilee. He is able to calm our storms. A lot of us allow the storms to drown us, throwing in the towel, as if God isn’t standing right there waiting for us to tag him in. (2)We can fight! God has equipped us to do so. His word says that he will never give us more than we can bear. Question is; how do you fight? How do you make it through those days when your heart can’t find the words to even pray? Remember that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
 
That being said, whether it’s spiritual warfare, trials and tribulations, or demonic oppression, it is vital to know the steps needed in order to be victorious. I have four steps I want to discuss:
 
 
1. Rebuking/Casting out-
The last thing you would want during a storm is to allow Satan to have his way. Example: if you are going through some kind of financial drought, and God says He will provide, rebuke doubt when it comes to attack! Rebuke and cast out all unhealthy emotions and discouragement. Rebuke and cast out all thoughts that are contrary to what the word of God says. Your mind must be protected. It’s already hard enough that you’re going through it, but having your helmet of salvation and properly rebuking is a definite must.
 
2. Be alert-
In the natural when there’s a storm coming your way, usually one makes the necessary preparations right? Same goes for the spiritual. Stay connected to the source. The source is God, therefore when you see signs of an approaching spiritual storm, get ready for battle. Pay attention to your prayer life, to your spiritual growth, to your relationship with God. Always be prepared and aware that the enemy does not sleep, neither should the children of God. You have to stay connected, and make sure you’re getting your daily fill.
 
3. Getting your daily fill-
As humans, we need to be in communication with those we love. Same goes for your relationship with God, especially in such crucial times. Worship him, have quiet time, rest in his presence, allow his spirit to pour down upon you. Read your word, the word is our daily bread (and sword). As humans we need food to survive, therefore as Christians we need  the word of God to survive, and fight effectively.
 
4. Pray, pray, pray!-
Do not stop praying. There is so much power in prayer. Prayer is not just you communicating with your Father, it’s also Him communicating with you. It’s that place of surrender, that secret place with him, that place of revelation. Prayer can cause breakthroughs, and heal you, and so much more. Pray without ceasing! When you pray with faith, and allow the Holy Spirit to intercede, mountains will tremble, and you best believe God hears our prayers and will make a way in his timing.
 
Whoever this is for, you can get through the storm. Storms make us stronger, they create endurance in us. No matter the storm, just know that you are not alone, and that the war has already been won, we just have to fight the battle, God is with you, and he will fight for you, if you let him. Stay blessed.
 

Rutchelle Alexandre is a recent alumni from Regis College, where she got her Bachelors in English and writing. She resides in the New England area. Rutchelle plans on attending divinity school, as well as obtaining her Masters degree in education. She serves faithfully at her local church, and is currently working on a novel. Rutchelle enjoys nature, poetry, traveling, and the simple things in life.