I’ve always loved this photo that my son, Hunter, captured on his phone during a storm. There is glory in the end!
Many times when we go through difficult times we simply, yet with much anguish, ask “Why”.
Those storms that occur in our life can be like a mighty hurricane that has just rocked our world. The damage can be severe and leave a lasting impression in our minds that we may think “How are we ever going to get through this?” Other storms pass through swiftly and leave little damage, but there is evidence that it happened. Yet others times it may be like a gentle rain shower that seems to last for days that saturate our psyche and drown our thoughts with hopelessness.
Friend, “Many waters cannot quench love” (Solomon 8:7). God is love. His love for you cannot get extinguished by any storm that will come your way. Yes, storms WILL come.
So, getting back to the question of why…
Don’t allow yourself to think about the “what ifs”. Your storm occurred and here’s what you are going to do about it:
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Is it difficult to praise Him in and through the storm? It can be if you permit yourself to withhold this precious opportunity to not occur. Relinquish yourself from all your “what if” thoughts and need to control situations. Focus on God. Know that He will bring glory in the end. Know that His thoughts are not our thoughts, nor His ways our ways. Know that when you praise Him He washes over your with a peace that passes all understanding. He is the source of all comfort. When He comforts us, attempt to embrace each little word of encouragement and strength you receive from God. Take hold of His peace, love, and mercy and keep it close to your heart. He may send His peace to you through a song, a friend, a word from a stranger, nature, a bible verse, etc. You will recognize the comfort when and however it comes your way.
What will happen is this…it may not be long after your storm, or it may be years later, but you will be confronted by someone who is going through a similar storm that you went through. You now have the opportunity to comfort them in much the same way you were consoled.
It has happened to me. I’ve been the recipient of the comfort, and have been able to console others through their storm. Many times. It is rewarding to know that God saw me through it and allows me to aid others in the midst of their storm.
God said, “My presence will go with you. I’ll see the journey to the end.” Exodus 33:14
He will be with you through it ALL. I’m praying for you, my friend.
I pray that you will enjoy soaking up The Son every moment of each day. –Stephanie
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