March 23

SHELTER FROM THE STORM

Isaiah 4:5-6

And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence. And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

Famous British preacher Charles Spurgeon once wrote, “Our Savior is the harbor of weather-beaten sails.” We get beat up sometimes, don’t we? We face times of trial, difficulty, pain and suffering that tear our sails and seem to leave us stranded in the middle of the ocean. But then God gently breathes his peace and guides our battered ship into the safe harbor of his love.

Difficulties, pain and suffering will not cease until we get to heaven. In the meantime, we must face into the wind, never doubting God’s promises to us during these times of trial.

We will not be spared suffering—it comes to all of us. When suffering strikes, we need to sail our ships through the trials, relinquish control by lowering our sails, and let God take the wheel.

Hunker down with God. The waves will wash over you, but calmer seas are ahead. God himself will be a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain.

GOD’S promise to me:

• Life is full of stormy seas, but I am always with you.

• Stop trying to control your ship. Lower your sails and let me guide you through the storm.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

God, the storm is pounding. I’m soaked and terrified. I give you control of my ship. Guide me to safe harbor. Amen.