God Isn't Surprised By Storms

If storms make your heart race or your mind jump back to what you’ve already lived through (Helene or another storm that you've experienced), you’re not weak — you’re human. Scripture never brings shame over anxiety or fear, but calls us to lift up our eyes to the Lord instead.

This is truth: God is not surprised by storms. Not the ones outside, and not the ones that rise up inside us. If today feels heavy, you don’t have to be brave or strong. You just have to stay close to Jesus. God’s presence is not dependent on calm weather. He is just as near in the howling wind as He is in the quiet.

Take a breath. You are not alone. God is steady, even when circumstances are not. Read below for some practical winter storm tips, as well as breath prayers to help you focus on our Sovereign God.

Practical Winter Storm Tips

For your body (to calm anxiety):

  • Limit how often you check weather updates — you can stay in the know without refreshing the forecast every couple of minutes.
  • Drink warm fluids; warmth can help signal safety to your nervous system.
  • Try slow breathing: inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 6. Add in a breath prayer*

For your home:

  • Charge phones and devices ahead of time.
  • Keep flashlights and blankets within easy reach.
  • Stick to simple meals that don’t require much prep.

For your mind and heart:

  • Stay connected — text or call someone you trust.
  • Play The Light FM or Bible App aloud in your home.
  • If fear strikes your heart, say this out loud: “God is my refuge and strength.”

For community:

  • Check in on a neighbor, especially someone who may be alone, elderly or with infants.
  • Accept help if it’s offered — that’s not failure, it’s community.

Breath Prayers to Calm Anxiety

1. God Is My Refuge

Inhale: “God is my refuge and strength…”
Exhale: “…a very present help in trouble.”
— Psalm 46:1 (ESV)

2. I Am Not Alone

Inhale: “Fear not, for I am with you…”
Exhale: “…I will uphold you.”
— Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

3. Peace, Be Still

Inhale: “Peace…”
Exhale: “…be still.”
— Mark 4:39 (ESV)

4. God Is Holding Me

Inhale: “Cast all your anxieties on Him…”
Exhale: “…because He cares for you.”
— 1 Peter 5:7 (ESV)

5. The Lord Is Near

Inhale: “The Lord is near…”
Exhale: “…do not be anxious.”
— Philippians 4:5–6 (ESV)