Is. 43:2 ~ When you go
through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of
difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression,
you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.
As I sit here writing
in my dimly lit bedroom, outside is a raging thunderstorm. The wind is blowing
so harshly that it seems angry. My blinds are knocking loudly against my
windows. The endless raindrops are steadily pouring from the sky into my apartment.
My window panes are flooded with so much water that rain is literally gushing
down the walls onto the carpet. To make matters worse, the thunder is extremely
deafening and forceful. Although, I know it’s coming (because of the lightning), the thunder jolts me and stirs a little bit of fear within. Even in this God
speaks. In the middle of the storm, God speaks to my heart, “Yes, the storm is
loud, boisterous, out of control, and seems to be never-ending, but you know in
your heart that it will subside. It will not rain forever. It will pass. Just
as with every storm in your life, they will pass. It will not remain this way
forever. Just wait it out.”
Many times, the storms
in our lives, both public and private are in fact loud, boisterous, out of
control, and seem never-ending. However, the Holy Spirit reminded me that this
too shall pass, just like every other storm I’ve faced in life. I want to
lovingly remind you that the storm you’re in right now, that seems like it will
never let up, will indeed pass. Trials, tests, and tribulations are scary, tumultuous,
and unpredictable, much like thunderstorms. During these storms, God commands
us just as He did Joshua in Josh. 1:9, “To be strong and courageous! Do not be
afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” God
is with you in the storm, in the battle, in the difficulty, in the unfair
treatment, in the disappointment, and in the pain. He’s there and will get you
through it.
Both thunderstorms
and rain serve a purpose. Their purpose is far greater than our inconveniences
and discomfort. God doesn’t check with us to see if a thunderstorm works with
our agenda for the day. It just rains until He’s done. Likewise, the storms in
our lives serve a purpose. It’s up to us to seek God’s face and ask Him. Word
of advice: Never go through a storm and come out empty. God has a purpose for
you in your storm (wisdom, understanding, greater anointing, increased faith, maturity,
patience, knowing Him, etc.). Cancel the pity party and ask God, What are You saying
to me? What are you trying to teach me? What is the lesson here? There is good
in your storm. Romans 8:28 declares, “And we know that God causes everything to
work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His
purpose for them.”
The Holy Spirit
also reminded me that God is in control. He controls the weather including the thunderstorms.
So, it is with the storms in our lives, God is in control. He knows how long it
will last and He knows how to get you through it. He is aware of your
circumstances. We don’t have to walk around frustrated. According to 1 Peter
5:7, we can cast all our cares on Him because He cares for us. Therefore, cast
your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never permit the
righteous to be moved (Psalm 55:22). The storm is not permanent, its only temporary.
You are in the palm of His hands.
Be Encouraged.
A.M.