Storms of life
After several months of severe drought, a week of stormy weather brought relief–both in cooler temperatures and much needed rain. Grass, trees, flowers, farmers, and most people welcomed the gift. These storms were an answered prayer for rain, but what about those storms of life?
I confess I’m one of those strange people that enjoys sitting on my porch during a storm. As a farm and garden girl, I appreciate the gift of rain on parched earth. My flowers are thirsty! But severe storms are a different breed–I respect the power of nature and seek shelter in dangerous storms.
This storm blasted through our community last week. Powerful thunder, dark clouds, and gusty winds persuaded us inside to wait until the storm passed. We sought refuge in our home.
Where do we find shelter from the storms of life?
The prophet Isaiah reminds us of our protector:
You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. (Isaiah 25:4)
Our Father is dependable in His protection:
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (Psalm 46:1-3)
When our storms of life are caused by people, God is trustworthy:
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise–in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? (Psalm 56:3,10,11)
He is with us when we are afraid:
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give it to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)
When storms of life threaten, what helps you find safety, comfort, and peace? Do you have a reassuring passage of scripture you turn to? A prayer which grants hope? A friend to call?