Storms come in many forms; what is a storm for one may be a rainy day for another and vice versa. But storms…they do come. When it’s dark with the winds of adversities howling and beating against us – fear nips at our heals trying to shake our foundation. When we feel we can barely stand another moment there seems to be a still small voice saying “My little one, listen to the sound of My voice, I will safely guide you through”. In that moment a glimmer of hope begins to dawn, casting a glance heavenward in surrender we tune our ears to hear more; tenderly He says “Come, My child, come closer, let Me hold you and comfort your distressed heart. My peace I give to you, don’t let circumstances rattle you; I have promised to always be with you in the good and difficult times. There is nothing you can’t handle when you are holding My hand”. Though storms continue to rage around a peace warms us, starting from within, as we hold onto His words.
When we gain our bearing one might ask, Lord, why did you not speak sooner when I was trying so hard to hear you? He gently replies “Why do you strive so hard in your mind – by your will, to hear Me, listen and hear with your heart. A cluttered mind has difficulty hearing, as does a spirit in unrest. Let My peace fill you, in the quiet place you can hear Me better”. When we try to make the Lord speak by an act of our will we become anxious and at unrest.
When we consider King David, a mighty warrior, he never said he was unafraid but that “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear…” Ps 56:3-4. We need to consider what we are thinking about, are we thinking and speaking in fear or faith. Is our words lining up with His words. Is our mind dwelling on all the past victories and times the Lord has seen us through hard situations or, are we listening to peoples horror stories and dwelling on worst case scenarios instead of praying in faith, and for grace to see us through. Many burdens are too heavy to carry alone, we are invited to “give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall” Ps 55:22.
I pray that when the storms rage that, like Jesus, we will be filled with peace and can rest in the tossing boat, secure and confident in our heavenly Father to see us through; that our ears will be open to hear His still small voice; his words of comfort, encouragement, hope, and promises. And, in faith, say to the storm – peace be still.
Beyond the Silver Coin 