With angst we are watching Michael crawl toward the Florida panhandle. I have two sisters in Florida, and although they are being spared, the potential for great harm in other parts of the state and country is very real. How can anyone rest easy and not worry when faced with something like this? Yet that is exactly what we are told to do. Trust God in everything, even in the midst of the storm.
The disciples were terrified when a storm came up on the sea of Galilee. Yet Jesus calmed the storm. God may not choose to dissipate the hurricane, but His power, strength and help will be evident in the lives of those who look to Him. He is a God who will address our inner storms bringing peace and joy even in chaos.
Times like these produce the real essence of our Christian faith. Will we be terrified and anxious as our storms come or will we able to stand firm and have faith that God will work in the midst of the storm? Don’t underestimate God. He is big enough for any problem. Even the winds and the water obey Him.
“A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going 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 8:23-25)
Let us pray today for those in the path of Hurricane Michael, especially along the Florida panhandle. May people be wise to take necessary precautions, and may God’s strength and peace help them deal with the troubles that come. May God calm the effects of the storm. We pray this inspires people to turn to God in their time of need, rather than turn from Him.