storms of life – Be Still…

Ezekiel 41:1-26 – Even Palm Trees

Read Ezekiel 41:1-26

I have always loved palm trees. Growing up in Iowa I didn’t see many unless I was on a trip to a tropical paradise. I must admit I was a bit surprised to see that palm trees were specifically part of this vision of God’s new temple. He must like them, too! God loves all of his creation, but not all trees are singled out to adorn the walls and inner sanctuary.

More and more details are revealed in this reading, but it was the palm trees that spoke to me. What would be the significance? Again, we can marvel at how God thought of everything to help his people succeed at worshipping him, all the way down to the palm tree decorations. Continue reading “Ezekiel 41:1-26 – Even Palm Trees”

Habakkuk 3:1-19 – Sovereign Lord

Read Habakkuk 3:1-19

Habakkuk’s prayer speaks to the supreme power of God, thus his sovereignty. In the face of what he has heard from God and the position he has been placed to share that message, Habakkuk’s world has been rocked. We see how he responds.

Habakkuk prays with humility. First and foremost, he calls out God’s deeds and dreams for his people. He tells God that no matter what calamity happens, “I will rejoice in the LORD!” How often do we praise God in the storms of our life? We’re probably complaining, a bit like Habakkuk did, but do we also give praise, as Habakkuk is modeling for us?

Luke 8:22-25 – Stormy Days

Read Luke 8:22-25

These short verses really speak volumes, don’t they?

Jesus has a plan; he wants to go across the lake. For the moment, think about a plan he has for you, perhaps you have been convicted of something that you are felt led to do to further his kingdom. Now back to the story.

The disciples apparently agree, for off they go. First lesson – obedience, follow the Lord’s direction. I suppose Jesus was tired and knew a trip across the lake would afford him a good rest. Did he know they’d encounter a storm? Was it a test for his disciples? The Sea of Galilee, the lake they were crossing, is known for it’s strong storms, and they can produce monstrous waves I’m told. Continue reading “Luke 8:22-25 – Stormy Days”

Mark 4:35-41 – Are You in a Storm?

Read Mark 4:35-41

This has to be one of my favorite stories of Jesus. It can speak to us on so many levels. What are we afraid of? Is it causing us to be in a frenzy on the outside (like the disciples in ours story) or only on the inside?

I will always remember sharing this passage with our children’s ministry kids on one particular summer Sunday. It is one of those perfect Bible stories that can be acted out. Kids have great imaginations and an ability to be creative, more so than adults usually. We had kids making weather sounds, and we had the disciples. It was hard to keep them “in” the boat they were acting so frantically. Now our boat was not that creative, it was just a big oval marked on the floor with masking tape. And we had Jesus. He was classic – not wanting to wake up, and when he did, he totally nailed the nonchalant “what are you afraid of” response. Priceless memories.

As we read this today, we are probably in the midst of one storm or another in our life. We were not promised smooth sailing in this life. We may have calmer waters during certain times, but the storms and challenges do come. How we respond in those times is what matters.

We often forget who is standing beside us (or sleeping in the boat). Jesus is with us 24/7 offering us the comfort we need, the wisdom we seek, the peace we are longing for. As Jesus said to the disciples, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

This was the “wake up call” that I needed today. How about you? It is always a good reminder to remember who is in charge and who can calm the storms of our life. Who should we be giving our lives to? What is consuming the most of our time? Is it work, is it worry, is it wishing something was different?

We all need to let go and let God take control of our storm. There is no sense worrying – think of Jesus’ words about faith. Like I said, this short passage can speak to us on so many levels. Will you let Jesus’ words calm your storm?

Let’s pray. Father, you know my struggles today. You know the concerns that are crippling me. Thank you for this reminder that you are bigger than any of my storms. Thank you that you are calming them at this very moment. Forgive me for my wavering faith in the midst of these storms. I want to stand strong and courageous for I know that you are with me. Thank you for loving me even when I’m looking the other way. Your way, Lord, is the best way, and I want to be walking with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.