STORMS

I sit this morning and hear the rumbling of the thunder in the distance. The sky is eerie, with its subtle hues of blues and grays blending together behind my soon to be in full bloom pear tree. I don’t think the storm is going to make it to land, at least not our land. But it remains a distant reminder of storms on the horizon for others. I think of those today who are awakening to struggles. Life or death struggles. Some literally life or death, as they watch a loved one cling to this earthly existence. Others face storms of different types. Ones that rage at the mailbox with the delivery of yet another bill that can’t be paid. Some that cause the household to tremble, an argument and hurtful words are found echoing through the halls. A father’s heart is crying for the child who appears lost; he wonders if the child will return home. A teens heart pounds with anxiety as she attempts to figure out her next steps; high school is over. The storm within her rages, as expectations press down on her, attempting to pound her into the ground. Some days the temptation looms…would it be easier to disappear. Would anyone notice if the storm carried me away, she ponders. A mother’s heart pounds; she is unsure if the sound of it is from inside her or from the thunder on the horizon. The clouds hang over her bed, luring her to stay there. It would be easier than facing the challenges of the day ahead. Facing the chaos and uncertainty that her day holds.

And in the midst of the it all, sun can be seen, peaking through the horizon. Making its way, oh so slowly, but we know it’s there. It doesn’t come with an earth-shattering arrival, parting the dark storm clouds in the blink of an eye. It comes slowly, penetrating the darkness bit by bit. With only a ray. A ray of hope. A ray of hope that promises there is life outside the storm. That this is someone who sees the person at the bedside of their loved one. There is someone who will walk through the challenges of financial devastation. There is someone who sees the hurting household. Hears the cries of the father for his child. There is someone who lifts the anxiety and desires to remove the weight of expectation. There is someone who puts out His hand and lifts someone out of bed, carrying them when necessary. 

My heart is heavy today, as the storms close in for so many. I pray for you today, that if you are one who is experiencing a storm, whether you are in the midst of it or whether you hear the rumblings of thunder on the horizon, and find yourself bracing for impact. I see you. God sees you. You are not alone. I pray you catch a glimpse of the ray of sunshine, regardless of how dark your storm appears. Regardless of how small the ray may seem today. Hold onto the ray, the promise that you are loved and you are not walking this journey alone. 

I hope you find encouragement today in the scriptures below. And please know, I’d be honored to confidentially pray for any requests you may have today, or any day. 

Scriptures for the Storms:

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you a blaze. Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)

Peace I leave you, my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 (NIV)

For you are my hiding place; you protect me for trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. Psalm 32:7 (NLT)

Mightier than the thunder of many waters, mightier than the waves of the sea, the Lord on high is mighty. Psalm 93:4 (ESV)

Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!  

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