Storms Are Coming

   Hurricane season is definitely here and Dorian has already brought damage and chaos to many in its path.
   Hurricane Dorian isn't the only thing bringing in storms. Life brings its own storms and it may seem at times we are surrounded with no way out. The storms of life can be destructive and leave damage that seems unrepairable.
   Proverbs 1:27 says it well: "When your terror comes like a storm, And your destruction comes like a whirlwind, When distress and anguish come upon you..."
   Yes, that's the feeling. It's the kind of destruction and terror that can't be kept out by boarding up openings or putting down sandbags, nor can you escape the storm by running away. Many will use their own worldly wisdom and strength to no avail.
   There is only one shelter that provides safety and calm from the destruction these storms can cause. That shelter is found in Jesus. It's a place of peace and rest. It's where Jesus provides healing and repair from the damage that seems so unrepairable.
   Yes, the storms are upon us, the waves are high, the winds are strong and the darkness that wants to surround us seems ominous. Listen, for there is a voice calling through the darkness of the storm. A voice that calms the winds, stills the waves and brings peace to the soul.
   Listen for the voice of the Savior and trust His calling. He will take you through the storm and out the other side to a place of safety, peace and healing.

Matthew 8: 23-26 KJV (each verse followed with paraphrase by Marie Levy)

v. 23 "And when He was entered into a ship, His disciples followed Him."
And when He entered our lives we followed Him.

v. 24 "And behold there arose a great tempest in the sea, in so much the ship was covered with the waves: but He was asleep."
And there arose a great hardship and stress in our lives; it was so bad that it covered our life with darkness and fear. God seemed so far away.

v.25 And His disciples came to HIm and awoke Him, saying, "Lord, save us, we perish."
And we cried out to God and cast our fears before Him and He heard us.

v. 26 And He saith unto them, "Why are ye fearful O ye of little faith?" Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.
Then He reached down to remind us that He is in control, to not be afraid and to give us more faith. He set aside our fears and gave us peace.