Did the Storm Come to Destroy You or Develop You? By: Prophetess Gladys Dark
Summary
Storms are inevitable in the life of every believer, but Scripture teaches that they are never without purpose. While Satan seeks to afflict, accuse, and discourage God’s people, he does not operate with independent authority. God alone is sovereign. What the enemy intends for destruction, God often allows and uses for development, refinement, and preparation for destiny. Every storm that touches a believer is filtered through God’s hand.
“You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.” — Genesis 50:20
Main Lesson
Satan May Afflict, but God Governs the Outcome
The Bible does not teach that Satan sends storms at will. God alone rules over creation and outcomes.
“The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord is enthroned as King forever.” — Psalm 29:10
However, Scripture clearly shows that Satan can afflict by permission, as seen in Job’s life.
Job — The Storm Refined His Faith
Satan attacked Job only after receiving God’s permission. His suffering was severe, but it was limited by God.
“The Lord said to Satan, ‘Behold, all that he has is in your power.’” — Job 1:12
What Satan intended to break Job’s faith, God used to deepen it.
“When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.” — Job 23:10
Joseph — The Storm Positioned Him for Purpose
Joseph’s storm came through betrayal, injustice, and imprisonment. God did not cause his brothers’ sin, but He sovereignly used it to position Joseph for preservation and leadership.
“They hurt his feet with fetters… until the time that his word came to pass, the word of the Lord tested him.”— Psalm 105:18–19
Joseph later understood the purpose of the storm:
“God sent me before you to preserve life.” — Genesis 45:5
David — The Storm Prepared Him for the Throne
David was anointed king, yet immediately entered a prolonged storm of rejection, pursuit, and warfare. The opposition did not negate the anointing—it matured it.
“Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Your word.” — Psalm 119:67
God used David’s storms to shape a shepherd into a king.
“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.” — Psalm 34:19
Personal Observation
I have learned that storms often follow promise. Just as with Job, Joseph, and David, seasons of testing often come after God reveals purpose. What once felt like attack, I now recognize as preparation. God used the pressure to deepen my trust, refine my obedience, and strengthen my dependence on Him. The storm did not disqualify me—it developed me.
Practical Application
Recognize God’s Sovereignty in Every Storm
Satan may seek to afflict, but God always governs the outcome.
Do Not Abort the Process
Development requires endurance.
Remain Faithful in Hidden Seasons
God prepares privately before promoting publicly.
Shift Your Perspective
Ask not only “Who is opposing me?” but “What is God producing in me?”
Trust God’s Purpose Above the Pain
Every storm serves a divine assignment.
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God.” — Romans 8:28
Prayer
Father God,
I thank You that You are sovereign over every storm in my life. I trust that nothing touches me without passing through Your hands. Strengthen me to endure seasons of testing like Job, to remain faithful like Joseph, and to be prepared like David. Let every storm refine me, align me with Your will, and position me for purpose. I declare that what was meant for harm is being used for my growth and Your glory.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.