Strength in the Storm
I love a good storm. The thrashing thunder and split-the-sky-wide-open lightning; the sheets of rain bouncing off the pavement; the bend of trees as they take in the wind. There’s nothing like the giant, ominous slate clouds coming closer that alert me to the impending storm. While I savor the storm, when the thunder really bellows and a spear of lighting slings straight through the sky, a reverent fear falls upon me as I marvel at just how mighty the elements are and how much things are quite out of my control.
All the uncontainable power of a storm reminds me of just a fraction of God’s power:
The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic. The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars; the Lord breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon. He makes Lebanon leap like a calf, Sirion like a young wild ox. The voice of the Lord strikes with flashes of lightning. The voice of the Lord shakes the desert; the Lord shakes the Desert of Kadesh. The voice of the Lord twists the oaks and strips the forests bare. And in his temple all cry, “Glory!” – Psalm 29:3-9 (NIV)
“Glory!” indeed.
The power and strength of God on full display is unmatchable. It has no end. But it is also gentle to our hearts when we know that the God who formed the universe has us in the palm of His hand.
We easily see examples of God’s power through nature, but we can also see His power in the way He guides our lives, in the way He answers prayer, and in our relationships with others. The God who never sleeps nor slumbers (Psalm 121:4) keeps His watchful eyes on His children.
Are you weary? Knocked down by the storms that swirl around your life? Look to the LORD and learn how His love is the most powerful force of all.
One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: “Power belongs to you, God, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love”; and, “You reward everyone according to what they have done.” – Psalm 62:11-12
We can be strong in the LORD and His strength when we place our trust in Him to take us through the rough patches in our lives, believing He is working all things for good (Romans 8:28). Though God is all powerful, He is also gracious and like a tender shepherd who sees His flock through the long nights and treacherous terrain.
This is the God who loves us. This is who we put our trust in. God is over the storms that rage both in the world and within our hearts. We can put our trust in Him when we are afraid, uncertain, or facing an enemy that feels stronger than we can manage. Take heart, for He who stills the raging seas still calms your heart today.
Questions for Reflection:
1. What challenges are you facing in this season of life? How can you invite God to be with you in them?
2. Remember how God has come through for you in the past and take comfort in His strength and ability to see you through again.
