Lightning peeled and thunder
rolled. All protecting us was a tent.
My brother and I were camping in the Smokies. The day
was beautiful, but darkness brought dramatic changes. Storms rolled in bringing
deafening thunder, keen lightning and torrential rain. Our tents provided little
security, and we lay awake listening, fearing, praying and contemplating our
powerlessness over the storm. Eventually we drifted off to sleep and the storms
subsided.
Storms can be terrifying and deadly. Leaving the
crowds, Jesus and his disciples head for the other side of the lake but
encounter a storm that threatens to destroy their ship and lives. Jesus seems
indifferent. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke
him and said to him, "Teacher,
don't you care if we drown?"
(Mark 4:38) Frantic with fear, the disciples wake Jesus. He calms the storm but
rebukes them for their weak faith.
Storms have a way of testing and transforming faith.
Regardless of whether they are sent or allowed by God, storms of conflict,
doubt, depression, financial struggles or family breakup can mold or melt our
faith. And we choose the outcome by our response. God's intent is always to mold
our faith, growing us into Christlike thoughts, attitudes and actions. His
ability to limit the intensity and length of the storm encourages us take one
more step.
Storms normally come unexpectedly, so preparation is
vital. People living where tornadoes or hurricanes are common normally have
homes with basements or storm shelters. Listening for the Spirit's guiding voice
coupled with regular prayer and Bible reading-as well as trusting in God's
power, enables us to endure storms with confidence instead of doubt and fear.
Prayer: Merciful Savior, thank You for controlling the
length and intensity of the storms. Guide us to trust You to bring us safely
through.
Martin Wiles
mandmwiles@homesc.com
Harleyville, South Carolina, USA
www.morningliteministry.com
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
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The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.