There are times you may see a storm approaching, and there may be time to prepare for it. Sometimes storms may come with no apparent signs or warnings. People have retired from their work life, anticipating continued health to enjoy their long-awaited plans. To their surprise, the doctors have discovered a major health problem that dashes everything they had planned to enjoy in retirement.
If there was ever a time in life when we witnessed unexpected storms, it is the time we are living in. Some people have lost everything from bad investments, divorce, death, hurricanes, floods, mudslides, and fires. In the storm, it can be difficult to see a silver lining and light at the end of the tunnel. Just the other day, a father received word that his son had suddenly passed away.
As a child, I had to live with relatives. I struggled and wondered if I would ever get to live with my mother and other siblings. For me, it was an emotional storm because I was too young to understand why my father left and why I couldn’t live with my mother as a family. As time passed, I began to understand through conversations I had with my older siblings. I did not want to accept the reality of what happened, and I made life somewhat difficult for myself by getting into trouble. I was hoping that somehow my father would return, and we would be a family again.
In life, storms may come to change our point of compass, and all we have is hope that there will be a brighter day. I can say that the things that happen in life can work for our good even when we don’t understand why the storm came at the time when all seemed well. Sometimes we need to slow down and reevaluate what is important in our lives for a better future.
I have been in major storms in life, especially as an ex-serviceman in the Navy aboard an Aircraft Carrier. The ship went side to side and up and down as the waves came crashing upon the flight deck. Though the journey was tempestuous, the captain knew that there was a destination to reach and how best to get there. No worry or concern of mine could change my current reality… I could only pray and trust.
In life, we may have to endure many storms, but there is one thing that I am assured of… “If God be for you, who or what can stand against you?” Whatever you are facing today, always remember His promise… “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 ESV
Celebrate with us and experience the Good Life at the Villages Community Chapel in Cribari Auditorium every Sunday at 10 a.m., where you will be encouraged by the Word of Life and enjoy coffee and cookies with friends. The chapel is a place where needs are met, faith is affirmed, and new friends are embraced. You can view our worship services on YouTube at http://www.villagescommunitychapel.vgcc.club