Late in the day, I sat on my porch noting the nice weather. I couldn’t help but sense, even smell, the rain in the distance. A storm was coming. Would that storm touch my life or move away and preserve the beauty of the day?
Worry overwhelms me at times. It often causes reactive behavior that steals precious time from fruitful, enjoyable activities. Could I really just trust God to be a refuge from the storms that often create havoc in my life?
Jesus set an example for the disciples by falling asleep at the height of a great storm, showing them how faith can overcome worry and doubt. They marveled when He rebuked the winds and calmed the sea. Could He do the same in my storm? Or will I try to ride it out on my own?
There is no amount of forecasting that will ever reliably predict when rain will ruin my day. I will have faith. I will trust God and He will take control. He will be my lifeline should I fall into the raging waters of the storm.
When I breathe deeply, I can still smell the rain. But I know the power of God’s protection and peace is only a prayer away. I pray that the rain I smell will not bring disaster but renewal and sustained life, if it comes my way at all.
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 (NRSV)