November 12: Shaking to Stand Strong

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 Shaking to Stand Strong

Key Text: “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” — Hebrews 12:26

Sharon Campbell-Danvers 
North Side SDA Church

As I sat experiencing the onset of what is dubbed the Christmas breeze, a number of thoughts flooded my mind. Is there a purpose for the shaking?

I noticed that both my heavily laden plantains fell. Thank God they were almost ready for the table. Then it dawned on me that indeed there is a purpose. It is in the shaking that roots are strengthened, seeds scattered, and other things realigned.

Similarly, in our Christian walk, God sometimes allows a shaking—moments that unsettle us, challenge our comfort, or cause certain things to fall away. Yet, in those very moments, He is strengthening our spiritual roots, spreading our influence, and preparing us for fruitfulness.

The shaking is not meant to destroy us, but to deepen our dependence on Him. Just as the wind serves a purpose in nature, so the storms in our lives serve a divine purpose in shaping us for His glory.

It is in the shaking that we learn to trust God more deeply.
It is in the shaking that hidden strength is revealed.
It is in the shaking that distractions fall away and focus is restored.
Because of the shaking, faith is refined and hearts are renewed.
Because of the shaking, we are reminded that God is still in control.
At the end of the shaking, there is peace.
At the end of the shaking, there is fruit that remains.

So when the winds blow and life feels uncertain, remember that God has a divine purpose in the shaking. He is not breaking you, He is building you.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the shaking seasons that draw us closer to You. Help us to stand firm in faith, trusting that every shaking has purpose. Strengthen our roots, renew our hearts, and let Your peace remain when the winds pass. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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