It wasn't necessarily a "good" thing that they encountered the storm, as it was a very dangerous and frightening experience. However, it did have some important consequences that ultimately benefited Bilbo and the dwarves:
* It forced them to seek shelter in the caves of the Misty Mountains. This led to their encounter with Gollum, who eventually helped them find the way out of the mountains. Gollum's riddle game was a crucial part of the story, as it led Bilbo to finding the One Ring.
* It tested Bilbo's courage and resourcefulness. Bilbo's quick thinking and bravery in the storm (like remembering his sword and using his wits to escape Gollum) proved his worth to the company and helped him grow as a character.
* It highlighted the importance of teamwork. The dwarves, despite their initial distrust of Bilbo, worked together to survive the storm and overcome their challenges.
So, while the storm itself was a terrifying experience, it ultimately served as a turning point in the story, pushing Bilbo and the dwarves closer to their goal and further along their adventure.