Do you ever look around and say, “wow, life is really hard sometimes?”
Earlier this week, I glanced out my window to see the sky suddenly becoming dark. The previously blue skies had made a quick turn to gray, and then suddenly a branch struck my window, startling me. Before I could even get to the window, the high winds could be heard howling outside. Twigs and branches were torn from their places among the trees and thrust to the ground. It didn’t take long for rain to combine with the high winds. As the water poured down from the sky, the wind blew it sideways, making it impossible to even see the trees that stood just yards from our house.
Minutes later, the skies cleared. The rain slowed to a trickle. The wind blew out as earnestly as it had blown in. The storm had subsided, leaving only its remnants scattered across our yard.
I sit here today pondering the impacts of storms on our lives. Not necessarily physical storms, although we have seen a number of those leaving devastation in their wake this year. But today, I think of the proverbial storms in our lives. Those who are walking through storms, struggling to stand in the wind. Attempting to find shelter from the rain. Those who are being hurt by the debris hurled at them with a force strong enough to knock them off their feet.
Perhaps you are one of those people. Or perhaps you know someone close to you who falls into that category. The people with life and death struggles. Some quite literally watching a loved one cling to this earthly existence. Others saying good-bye to those who have just made their journey to heaven, leaving a gaping wound in the hearts of those left behind.
Others face storms of a different sort. 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, as arguments and hurtful words are found echoing through the halls. A father’s heart is crying for the child who appears lost, wondering 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 rages within her, as expectations press down, attempting to pound her into the ground.
Some days, the temptations slide their way into her thoughts…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 if possibly those around her can hear the thunderous noise it makes. The clouds hang over her bed, luring her to stay there. It would be easier than facing the chaos and uncertainty the day holds.
My heart is heavy today, as storms close in for so many of you. The pain is deep; I know you are wondering when the darkness will turn to light again. Let me promise you, it will. In the midst of it all, sun can be seen. It is peaking through the horizon. It is making its way, oh so slowly; yet we can remain confident, it is there. It often doesn’t come with an earth-shattering arrival, parting the dark storm clouds in the blink of an eye. It frequently comes slowly, penetrating the darkness bit by bit. Only one ray at a time. A ray of hope. A ray of hope that promises…there is life outside the storm. There 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 people out of bed, carrying them when necessary.
Whether you are currently weathering a storm, or hearing the distant rumblings of thunder on the horizon, I am praying for you today. I see you. More importantly, God sees you. You are not alone. I pray that regardless of how dark your storm appears, you catch a glimpse of the ray of sunshine. And when you catch that glimpse, even if it is minute, hold onto that ray. Hold tightly onto the ray that promises you are loved and you are not walking this journey alone.
May you find encouragement today in a few of my favorite scriptures. And please know, I’d be honored to confidentially pray for any requests you may have today. Just email me from my website, and I will join you in prayer.
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 & speaker who recently released her first book, The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments. This book quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories, as well as made its way into the Finals for the Selah Awards in the Devotion category. In her book, Misty authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, four daughters-in-laws, and three granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:
Sign up here to receive reminders and links to Marriage Monday, Wednesday's Word, and Misty's monthly devotional newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome
Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14
Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064Instagram: @mistydawncramer
Misty Cramer © 2024