After The Storm Breaks

Last night my wife and I held hands and prayed. We asked God's blessing for our new apartment. And we cried from the pain of some unpleasant surprises that left us feeling very discouraged and low. The last 48 hours proved more challenging than we could ever imagine when moving some 20 minutes north to our new location.

As evening faded into morning a storm rolled over the dark, slow moving waters of the Hudson River. Sharp peals of thunder split the sleepy skies with a resounding clap.

God's voice is glorious in the thunder. We can't even imagine the greatness of his power. (Job 37:5 NLT).

I got up and closed the bedroom windows after I noticed the windowsills were drenched. It was then I looked up at the gray skies and smiled. God's used the storm to bring relief from the summer's heat and the strong sunlight pouring through the windows. Since we moved into the apartment we had not been able to put up blinds so it was difficult to get much rest (or privacy for that matter). I realized our prayer that night seemingly turned something in my spirit. I felt just a bit lighter as if a weight had rolled off my shoulders.

But it was hours later when stepping into the shower that I felt that same oppressive weight from cares and anxiety start to overwhelm me. I got down on my knees and lifted up my hands and presented my body to Him - it was His temple after all. When I stood up I declared aloud His goodness. I proclaimed He was good and faithful. His sovereign hand was on our lives. His supernatural power was at work to conform me to His image. In minutes the storm brewing in my soul began to subside.

He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. (Mark 4:39 NIV).

Beloved no matter how unsettling and uncomfortable you may find yourselves when taken by unexpected twists and turns of life. Or when you face unexplained pain remember God is still good and faithful to His promises. Hold to this promise until the storm breaks.

He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven (Psalms 107:29-30 NIV).

Yes, there is haven for the storm tossed. A place of rest and protection. Let His goodness guide you to that safe harbor.