God has this habit of sending me super vibrant rainbows whenever pivotal moments are happening in my life. In the last 2 hours I have had three rainbows in three different locations! I vividly recall when we moved from the South of England to the North (not an emotionally easy move) that as we crossed the metaphorical “border” into our new city, an awe-inspiring rainbow stretched its arc right across the motorway.
Have you ever noticed that the rainbow always appears brightest when it’s next to the darkest clouds?
There exists a profound beauty in the contrast between darkness and light, the brilliance and potency of light becomes most striking when juxtaposed against moody, broody charcoal clouds. Could it be in his wisdom that James exhorts us to consider it pure joy when we face trials precisely because it is in the midst of darkness that we are more readily able to perceive and appreciate the brightness and might of God’s love?
Indeed, the promise of God’s faithfulness shines brilliantly in the midst of life's storms, filling us with hope, strength, and unwavering faith. He said in Genesis 9:13, "I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth."
When we face challenges, trials, and uncertainties, we can find solace in the knowledge that God has made a covenant with us. Just as He set the rainbow as a sign of His faithfulness to Noah and all generations, He remains faithful to us today. And time and again, a rainbow reminds me of His steadfast loyalty. His promises endure, and His presence is unwavering, even in the darkest clouds of our lives.
Looking for the light (or a rainbow) in the midst of a storm reminds me that I am not alone. God's promises, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze" (Isaiah 43:2).
He is with us, unwavering in His presence, no matter how dark the clouds appear, protecting us in the midst of trials. I love how in a really fierce storm, a rainbow acts as a defining barrier between dark and light, clearly demarcating the boundary between the tumultuous storm on one side, and the radiant, warm sun on the other.
In His great might, while there may be a storm, our Father God is also able to hold it at bay and prevent the rain from falling right where we are.
In the face of a powerful storm, when all seems bleak and overwhelming, the sight of a rainbow always lifts my soul. It represents a glimpse of hope and beauty amidst the chaos, a symbol of God's presence and unwavering faithfulness. The rainbow stands, visually marking the separation between the turbulent trials we experience and the peace and beauty that lie beyond.
As a loving Father, God guides us through the waters and fiery challenges, shielding us from being overwhelmed or consumed by them. Though dark clouds may surround us, His light shines brighter, illuminating our path and providing us with unwavering strength. And it’s because of this that we are reassured, knowing "that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).
Even in the midst of our darkest and most challenging moments, God has the power to redeem and orchestrate all things together for our good. What may seem like insurmountable trials can be transformed into opportunities for growth, resilience, and deepened faith. God's purpose is at work, even in the clouds, birthing new beginnings and greater blessings than we could ever imagine, "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Corinthians 4:17).
In the light and perspective of eternity, our stormy seasons are temporary. As we endure the trials, our faith is refined, our character strengthened, and our hope secured in the promises of God. It is in the face of the greatest unknowns and darkest clouds that we are to fix our eyes on the eternal glory that awaits us, knowing that God's grace is sufficient to carry us through every storm.
I pray you are encouraged that even if it seems like dark and stormy clouds are overhead, it’s exactly in those places that the rainbow has the potential to shine the brightest. Embrace the storms of life, knowing that God's promises shine brilliantly in those moments. HE, the Light of the World, shines brilliantly in those moments.
Keep your eyes fixed on Him, for His light will guide you through every storm.
I'm so grateful for rainbows!
Em 💛