Why do we only realize our strength after the storm?

 The metaphorical use of “storm” indicates life’s trials.

A trial is a test.

In a court, it tests evidence for or against a charge.

In science, it’s an experiment to test whether a theory holds up.

In engineering, it tests a prototype to see how well it performs.

In spiritual life, doubt and confusion test our resolve.

And in ordinary life, trials test our character.

So storms are life’s trials, and trials are tests. The result of a test can only be known after the test.

Before the storm, we may have potential strength, but we don't necessarily know how much strength we actually have. A storm brings chaos, danger and disruption. It gives that potential strength something to act against.

Then, after the storm, we can see what was really there.

If we stood firm, we may discover we had more strength than we thought. If we didn't stand firm, we may discover that we had less than we thought.

After the storm, not only can our strengths be realized, but also our weaknesses.

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