Friday, April 16, 2021

storms within

"But now, this is what the Lord says—

'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and
when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. 
For I am the Lord your God..." Isaiah 43:1-3 

Spring, even with all its beauty, is a season of continuous, pop-up storms. It's not if we'll have a storm, but when. Our best line of defense is to acknowledge and prepare for impending storms with the right tools... proper outwear close at hand, a review of guidelines for tornadoes, and an attentive ear for weather alerts.  Fact is we can't always outrun or dodge the storms around us; some will strike with no warning.  But we can obtain safety and protection with wise preparation and action.


The storms inside us are not too different from the ones in our neighborhood. No matter how "good" we are, outside forces can sever our comfort zone... broken relationships, job loss, death, fear, sickness.  Sometimes our decisions or actions cause hardships and others times, it just happens.  No matter the circumstances, our pain from storms can be eased, comforted or resolved with the right tools:

*Being clothed in love as God's child
*Reading His Word for guidance, strength and peace
*Praying, listening and responding to God

Storms, disappointments, failures, hurts... God doesn't say if it happens, but when it happens; and when it happens, He is there. 

Let's ride out the storms with God. Because He who can still the wind, can also still our heart.  Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

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