After the Storm
We’ve experienced several weeks of volatile weather–severe thunder storms, torrential rains, destructive flooding, and horrific tornadoes. I’m thankful my family has been spared from the terror of tornadoes and my prayers are with those of you that have experienced property damage and injuries.
Sometimes our storms are an inconvenience, rather than a tragedy. We lose electrical power, a tree falls on the fence in our horse pasture, or rain and hail destroy garden and flowers. This is one of our azalea bushes following a recent storm. It’s kind of battered.
We get battered by life’s storms, too, don’t we?
Spring arrived early in the southeast United States. Abundant rains and warm sunshine fostered a glorious splendor of colorful blossoms. This is a picture of the same azalea displaying its beauty just a few hours before the storm.
Fortunately, after a few days of rest, the azalea recovered and was almost as lovely as before the storm.
How do we recover after a storm?
We know to whom we can turn when the storms of life are raging, when we are frightened of what the future holds.
Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago. You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. Isaiah 25:1, 4
Jesus calmed the storm and eased the fears of His disciples.
One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and set out. As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples woke him saying, “Master, Master, we’re doing to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.” Luke 8:22-24
Natural disasters bring tragedy and heartache for those in their path. Trials and suffering are also a part of life–we cannot hide from those storms that bring heartache and pain. But…we know who brings peace. We can take our burdens to our Lord and He will carry the load for us.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29
Amen! It is understanding that trials will occur during this life, but knowing they are but a temporary situation that makes them bearable with God’s help. We can choose to use to deepen our faith and strengthen our resolve. Great post Ms. Katherine.
Our trials are temporary (although they seem huge at the time), but we are blessed to have a loving Savior that we trust to be with us through those storms. Thanks for reminding us that these storms and trials strengthen our faith–sometimes we forget that lesson!
Katherine, thank you for your thought-provoking post! Yes, we often face those nature-related storms. Here in Georgia for the last several years, we keep getting battered with hurricane effects and they are terrifying. But equally terrifying are other storms we face in life. I know that my human nature seems to encourage me to “worry,” even though I deeply believe that God is in control and will see me through ANY storm. I often ponder how non-believers face such trials and storms, because I know Who is in control, and human nature still lets me worry. I just can’t imagine going through life’s difficulties as a non-believer, with no hope or nothing to grasp onto! Thanks for sharing!
I agree, Julie. I don’t know how non-believers make it through the storms of life. Aren’t we blessed to have the confidence of God’s amazing love?
Oh yes this is spot on! And I’d add that even when we know God’s got us a moment of fear or some other strong emotion is not a moment of faith failure. It’s normal. But then we press on in faith.
That’s the key, Loretta, PRESS ON! Thanks for your encouraging message!
“You will have trouble in this world. But I overcame the world” (Jesus). And with Jesus, so can we! Your post is a reassuring reminder of this. Beautiful photos!
We are so blessed to have the message of Jesus recorded in the scriptures and the freedom to be able to read the Bible, worship our Lord, and practice our faith openly. Thank you, Candace. Wishing you a blessed week.
It’s interesting to me that sometimes the human tendency is to ask God “why” He allowed the storm instead of turning to Him to find out “how” we get through to. But, He is ever patient with us!
Aren’t we blessed? As you say, we ask “why?” Sometimes we whine, complain, pout, and scream in frustration–yet, our Lord is ever patient, waiting for us to turn to Him. He grants us mercy and grace in our weakness. Thank you, my friend, for your faith and inspiration.