Few events cause the uncertainty or anxiety associated with a coming storm. As I write this, Hurricane Sandy has blasted itself across Cuba and the Bahamas leaving 21 dead in it's wake. It is expected to turn north towards the United States East Coast threatening the great cities of New York and Boston. Of course we have come to learn that, no matter how great the city, powerful storms leave their mark of destruction, especially when little or no preparations are made to withstand them. This is true as it regards other storms of life, also.
Everyone knows what it is like to face difficult days in their personal relationships or personal finances. Occasionally, we must face ill health or the death of a loved one or friend. At times, the storm clouds gather and threaten even the the most powerful among us. Trials and tribulations are no respecter of persons.
The results of such storms are even more damaging when people fail to adequately prepare for them. Many are taught, from their earliest years, to prepare 'for a rainy day'. One principle pertaining to our financial health, is to 'maximize our income while minimizing our expenses'! With the development of our personal relationships, we are taught to invest in and nurture them, so as to achieve success! However, we also learn that there are few guarantees in life.
There is one story in the Bible that comes to mind as I write on this subject:
"And evening having come, He said to them on that day, Let us pass over to the other side. And when they had sent away the crowd, they took Him with them as He was in the boat. And there were also other little boats with Him. And there arose a windstorm, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was now full. And He was in the stern of the boat, asleep on a headrest. And they awakened Him and said to Him, Master, do You not care that we perish? And He awakened and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, Peace! Be still! And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And He said to them, Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?" Mark 4:35-40 MKJV If we are to prepare for the storms that come our way, it would be a good thing to remember just who it is that has the power to quell the storm!
Placing our life in the powerful and loving hands of Jesus Christ will help us survive the storm! This does not mean that storms will not come our way, it simply means that we depend upon the One who has the ultimate power to enable us in the storms midst.
Whatever difficulties you may be facing, learn to take them to the Lord in prayer....always listening for His direction and calming voice. No, there is no guarantee that troubles will not come your way. But, when they do, you do not have to face them alone or in your own strength. God is 'in the boat' with you, and He will stretch out His hand and quell the raging waters when you place your life in His hands.
The most encouraging words found in the above quoted scripture are, I believe, " And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm." This calm can be yours if you seek Him out and accept His provision for you, today! GDL
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