"Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law." Psalms 119:18 (KJV)
"Lord, Why Am I in This Storm?"
“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Romans 5:2-5
Every single person has struggles. What God allows in a person’s life is meant to help them grow closer, stronger, and more reliant on the Lord.
The trials another is going through may not seem to be so bad to others, but God knows that it is what is needed to test “their metal.” After successfully going through their trials, they will be able to face future storms that are allowed in their life and even encourage those with similar experiences.
I was better able to realize the importance of our going through trials and tribulations after examining a picture of a lighthouse. This one particular lighthouse was engulfed in waves, yet it still was upholding its important purpose and was where it would do the most good.
A lighthouse is a tall structure which houses a bright light for sea-going vessels to see. In the darkest of nights or piercing through stormy weather, ships can immediately know that they are getting close to a shore-line or dangerous, submerged rocks by seeing the tower’s warning beacon.
Although most lighthouses were constructed high above any danger from a storm’s crashing waves, this one was not. This particular lighthouse was barely above sea-level where it often was battered by ocean’s waves.
The picture was of the La Jument Lighthouse at the northwestern part of France. It was constructed in a place where there were many shipwrecks. Between 1888 and 1904 there were 31 wrecks in the lighthouse’s area. A wealthy French man, who almost experienced death in a shipwreck, knew how important the lighthouse would be and financed its construction.
Because of its dangerous location and tumultuous engulfing waves, the beacon was started in 1904 but was not finished until 1911. Its foundation was hewn in solid rock and barely stands out of the water. There are times that the 154-foot-tall tower is lambasted by 65 to 97-foot waves. Many pictures have been taken of the lighthouse boldly standing with waves appearing to cover the beacon completely.
Through all the hardships in its construction, it still stands and has saved many lives and shipwrecks. It was a savior to many because it was built with hardship in a place it was needed the most. If it did not experience all the violent waves it has, it would not be where it could warn and spare so many lives.
Like the La Jument lighthouse, those Christians that have faced tremendous hardships, trials, weathered their “storms,” and are still standing are an important encouragement and boost to the hope and faith of many around them. If they had not gone through such difficult times they may not have been the “light” that gives others hope and inspiration to withstand their storms. Most may not know why they faced so many difficulties, but God may have used their experiences to guide others to safe harbors.
Observing eyes are often on those that proclaim to be children of God. They are often scrutinized on how they behave in adversities, through trials, and in difficulties. When they react like the unsaved and scream, holler, and curse when in the pit of despair, the name of “Christian” gets one more black-eye as being a poor testimony.
However, those that may have had their foundations anchored by adversity enable them to continue to stand proud and tall after being bludgeoned by what the world recognizes as terrible experiences. They are the “lighthouses” that shine through the gloom of affliction. They are the ones that can give others hope that they too can weather their storms.
The survivors of tremendous adversity also show that a foundation based on biblical principles can help others weather through whatever they have to face. Their perseverance and strength proves that Christ can lead the way through whatever a person faces in life.
The pounding “waves” in your life can either make you shake your fist at God or draw you closer to Him for His help. How does the world see you faring through your trials?
Is your perseverance through what God has allowed you to experience a beacon of hope and victory, or is it a clear picture that you have no expectation or directing “light” to guide yourself through your trials? Be a La Jument Lighthouse and show that God can give you the strength to withstand your ordeal.
“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.” Psalm 18:2
This article was featured in the The Bible View #691.