A friend of mine recently texted me asking if I was preparing for the impending storms predicted to hit our area. Me being made up of 50% sarcasm, I reminded them that I originally came from Tornado Alley (straight outta Oklahoma) and we wrangled twisters like they wrangle cattle... Now, personally, I thought that was a pretty witty line. But the fact is, if the storms had produced a tornado, I would have been just as unprepared and afraid as everyone else. It got me thinking about when those major storms of disappointment hit our personal lives. They feel like a big old brick wall coming at us at lightning speed. They knock the breath right out of our lungs. And sadly, for me, they tend to send me spiraling around and around in an emotional twister of anxiety, fear and worry.
God's word is very plain on how we should look at these "twisters of disappointment". Multiple verses teach us to be strong, courageous, cast our cares on him, so on and so forth. Jeremiah 29:11 is probably my favorite to read when my poor human heart gets down-trodden with these emotions. It's one that's committed to memory at this point: For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
I'm also reminded of the song by Casting Crowns..Praise You In This Storm. The chorus spoke to me during one of the most disappointing times in my life:
And I'll praise You in this stormAnd I will lift my handsFor You are who You areNo matter where I amAnd every tear I've criedYou hold in Your handYou never left my sideAnd though my heart is tornI will praise You in this storm
Even in the valley, in the depths of despair, when our hearts are heavy with disappointment, our God is worthy of our praise. Can't you just feel him standing right beside you through every thunderclap, lightning flash and gale force wind? If you can't, I promise you he is and I know there have been many times I've felt all alone during the storm. It's actually then that he's carrying us.
No matter what kind of storm you're facing, no matter how strong the winds are blowing things out of control, he's got it. Put your faith in the one that can control the storms within you. God doesn't allow these storms to hit without a purpose. Sometimes he's stretching our faith or obedience, sometimes it preparation for growing into a new position he has for you, or he may be moving you out of a situation that was no longer good for you and he knew you couldn't move on without the storm. Lately, for me, it's been a divine transformation within my heart for all of the above. He has given me blessings, peace, love, clarity and so much more. Each hard moment is met with exactly what I need right then. Trust in him and his timing. This storm will pass and you'll see the rainbow again.
As always, I love you all but God loves you the MOST.
Kelley
P S If you find yourself facing a storm and need prayer, please fill out the prayer form or email me. I'm here...
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