The Calm Before the Storm

A Study Manual for Thriving in Every Season of Life

By Pastor Terry W. Bailey

DocBMedia / Hope-over-Cope Counseling

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction: The Wisdom of Joseph

2. How to Use This Study Manual

3. Recognizing the Signs of Changing Seasons

4. The 3 Good Years: Preparation, Gratitude, and Stewardship

5. The 3 Terrible Years: Endurance, Faith, and Practical Steps

6. Building a Support Network

7. Faith Over Fear: Trusting God in Uncertainty

8. Financial Stewardship in Every Season

9. Leaving a Legacy: Teaching the Next Generation

10. Living with Hope in Every Season

11. Next Steps for Individuals, Couples, and Families

12. Personal Testimonies

13. Worksheets & Checklists

14. Scripture Memory Challenges

15. Prayer Journal Pages

16. About the Author

17. Resources & Support

18. A Note on Support & Donations

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Introduction: The Wisdom of Joseph

Life is a series of seasons—some filled with abundance, others with challenge. The story of Joseph in Genesis 41 teaches us that God sometimes gives us “good years” to prepare for the storms ahead. This manual is your guide to making the most of your blessings, building resilience, and holding on to hope—no matter what season you’re in.

"Let Pharaoh look for a discerning and wise man and put him in charge of the land of Egypt… The plan seemed good to Pharaoh and to all his officials." (Genesis 41:33, 37 NIV)

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How to Use This Study Manual

- Set aside time each week to work through a section.

- Read the teaching and scripture aloud.

- Discuss the reflection questions honestly.

- Write your answers in the provided spaces.

- Pray together using the sample prayers or your own words.

- Complete the action steps before moving to the next section.

- Use the journaling space for thoughts, prayers, or anything God puts on your heart.

- Share your journey with a friend, family member, or small group.

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Chapter 1: Recognizing the Signs of Changing Seasons

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV)

God often gives us signs that a new season is coming. Joseph recognized the meaning of Pharaoh’s dreams and acted accordingly. Are you paying attention to the signs in your life?

Real-Life Application

Sometimes, the signs are obvious—a job change, a health diagnosis, a shift in relationships. Other times, they’re subtle—a restlessness, a sense of anticipation, or a gentle nudge from the Holy Spirit.

Reflection & Discussion

- What signs of change do you see in your life right now?

- How do you typically respond to change—fear, excitement, denial, or faith?

- What is God saying to you about the season ahead?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Lord, open my eyes to the signs of the seasons in my life. Give me wisdom to prepare and faith to trust You in every change. Amen.

Action Steps

- List three changes you sense may be coming.

- Pray for discernment and courage to respond in faith.

Notes & Journaling

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Chapter 2: The 3 Good Years: Preparation, Gratitude, and Stewardship

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"During the seven years of abundance the land produced plentifully. Joseph collected all the food produced in those seven years of abundance in Egypt and stored it in the cities." (Genesis 41:47-48 NIV)

Good years are a gift from God, not just for enjoyment, but for preparation and stewardship.

Real-Life Application

How are you using your good years? Are you building spiritual, emotional, and practical reserves for the future? Gratitude and wise stewardship now can make all the difference later.

Reflection & Discussion

- What “good years” have you experienced in your life?

- How did you use those times—did you prepare, or did you coast?

- What resources (spiritual, financial, relational) can you store up now?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Lord, thank You for seasons of blessing. Help me to be wise and faithful in times of plenty, so I am prepared for whatever lies ahead. Amen.

Action Steps

- List three blessings you have right now and how you can steward them.

- Set a goal to save, serve, or grow in one area this month.

Notes & Journaling

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Chapter 3: The 3 Terrible Years: Endurance, Faith, and Practical Steps

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"When the famine had spread over the whole country, Joseph opened all the storehouses and sold grain to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe throughout Egypt." (Genesis 41:56 NIV)

Hard times are inevitable. The key is not to panic, but to draw on what God has helped you store up.

Real-Life Application

What “terrible years” have you faced, or do you fear facing? How did you respond—did you rely on your reserves, or did you feel unprepared? Who can you turn to for support in hard times?

Reflection & Discussion

- What “terrible years” have you faced, or do you fear facing?

- How did you respond—did you rely on your reserves, or did you feel unprepared?

- Who can you turn to for support in hard times?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Father, in seasons of struggle, remind me of Your faithfulness. Help me to trust You, draw on what You’ve given me, and reach out for help when I need it. Amen.

Action Steps

- Identify one area where you feel unprepared and make a plan to strengthen it.

- Reach out to a friend, mentor, or church for encouragement or accountability.

Notes & Journaling

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Chapter 4: Building a Support Network

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV)

God never intended us to go through life alone. Community is a gift and a necessity.

Real-Life Application

Who is in your support circle? How can you strengthen those relationships and be a support to others?

Reflection & Discussion

- Who are your closest supporters in faith, family, and friendship?

- How can you build deeper connections?

- Who might need your encouragement right now?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Lord, thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life. Help me to build strong, godly relationships and to be a source of encouragement to others. Amen.

Action Steps

- Reach out to someone in your support network this week.

- Join a small group, Bible study, or ministry team.

Notes & Journaling

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Chapter 5: Faith Over Fear: Trusting God in Uncertainty

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV)

Fear is natural, but faith is supernatural. God calls us to trust Him, especially when the future is unclear.

Real-Life Application

What fears do you need to surrender? How can you replace worry with worship?

Reflection & Discussion

- What are your biggest fears about the future?

- How do you typically handle anxiety or uncertainty?

- What promises of God can you hold onto?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Father, I surrender my fears to You. Fill me with faith and peace as I trust in Your goodness and sovereignty. Amen.

Action Steps

- Write down your top three fears and pray over them daily.

- Memorize a scripture about God’s faithfulness.

Notes & Journaling

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Chapter 6: Financial Stewardship in Every Season

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing." (Proverbs 3:9-10 NIV)

God cares about how we manage our resources. Stewardship is an act of worship and preparation.

Real-Life Application

Are you budgeting, saving, and giving in a way that honors God? What changes can you make to be a better steward?

Reflection & Discussion

- How do you currently manage your finances?

- What financial habits need to change?

- How can you use your resources to bless others?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Lord, help me to honor You with my finances. Give me wisdom to save, give, and spend in ways that please You. Amen.

Action Steps

- Create or review your budget this month.

- Set a giving goal for the year.

Notes & Journaling

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Chapter 7: Leaving a Legacy: Teaching the Next Generation

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts." (Psalm 145:4 NIV)

Your story, faith, and wisdom are meant to be shared.

Real-Life Application

How are you passing on faith and preparation to your children, grandchildren, or those you mentor?

Reflection & Discussion

- What legacy do you want to leave?

- Who are you intentionally investing in?

- What family traditions or values do you want to pass on?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Father, help me to leave a legacy of faith, hope, and love. Show me how to teach and encourage the next generation. Amen.

Action Steps

- Share a testimony or lesson with a younger person this week.

- Start a family devotion or tradition.

Notes & Journaling

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Chapter 8: Living with Hope in Every Season

Teaching & Biblical Foundation

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9 NIV)

Hope is the anchor of the soul. No matter the season, God is with you and for you.

Real-Life Application

How can you cultivate hope, even in hard times? What spiritual practices keep you anchored?

Reflection & Discussion

- What gives you hope in difficult seasons?

- How do you encourage yourself and others to persevere?

- What spiritual habits help you stay grounded?

Write your thoughts below:

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Prayer

Lord, fill me with hope and perseverance. Help me to trust Your timing and never give up. Amen.

Action Steps

- Start a gratitude journal.

- Encourage someone else who is struggling.

Notes & Journaling

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Next Steps for Individuals, Couples, and Families

- Review your answers and prayers together.

- Make a family or personal “preparation plan” for the next year.

- Commit to ongoing growth—spiritually, emotionally, and practically.

- Consider sharing your journey with others who may need hope.

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Personal Testimonies

(Use this space to write your own story or invite others to share theirs. Real stories inspire real hope.)

My Story:

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Testimony from a Friend:

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Worksheets & Checklists

Preparation Checklist

- [ ] I have identified my current season.

- [ ] I have a support network.

- [ ] I have a budget and savings plan.

- [ ] I am investing in the next generation.

- [ ] I am practicing gratitude and hope.

Budget Worksheet

Income: ____________________

Expenses: __________________

Savings: ___________________

Giving: ____________________

Spiritual Growth Plan

Scripture to memorize: ____________________

Prayer focus: ____________________________

Service opportunity: ______________________

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Scripture Memory Challenges

- Genesis 41:33, 37

- Ecclesiastes 3:1

- Philippians 4:6-7

- Proverbs 3:9-10

- Galatians 6:9

Write each verse below and memorize one per week.

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Prayer Journal Pages

Prayer Requests:

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Answered Prayers:

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About the Author

Pastor Terry W. Bailey has served as a pastor, chaplain, and counselor for over 45 years. His passion is to help individuals and families build lives rooted in biblical truth, hope, and practical wisdom.

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Resources & Support

- DocBMedia Website

- Recommended Books & Studies

- Local Church Directory

- Christian Counseling Services

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A Note on Support & Donations

This manual is offered freely as a resource to strengthen lives and families. If you have been blessed by this guide, please consider making a donation to support DocBMedia and help us continue providing hope-filled resources to others. Your support makes a difference!

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Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. May God bless you as you prepare for every season of life.

Terry W. Bailey

Marriage & Family Counselor | DocBMedia / The Midnight Watch