Juni 09, 2009

His Calm Within The Storm

I was blessed and challenged by a special message from a friend - "Patiently Trust His Timing" which considered Abraham and Sarah
as they waited for God's promise through the birth of Isaac. Waiting for
God's direction and blessing can be a great test of our faith, but waiting
on God for our rescue can be an even greater challenge.

There are three great storms detailed in the New Testament. The first
occurred when Jesus was crossing the Sea of Galilee with His
disciples. Jesus was asleep when the storm began, and the disciples became
afraid and woke Him: "Lord save us! We're going to drown!" (Matthew
8:25). Jesus rebuked the disciples for their fear and proceeded to calm
the storm; "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" (Matthew 8:26).

The second storm occurred immediately after the miraculous feeding of over
five thousand people. This time, Jesus sent the disciples across the sea
by themselves. When the storm rose up, Jesus went out to meet
them...walking on the water. As Jesus again calmed the storm, He spoke the
same message against fear; "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid"
(Matthew 14:27).

The last storm occurred about thirty years after Jesus was crucified. Paul
had proclaimed the gospel through much of the Roman empire and was being
transported by boat to stand trial in Rome. A storm arose which blew the
ship terribly off course. The ship was battered and tossed for several
days; "We finally gave up all hope of being saved" (Acts 27:20).

It must have been difficult to trust God's timing as the storm continued
through the many long days and sleepless nights. But as hope was fading
away, God sent an angel to Paul with a familiar message.

Acts 27:23-24
”Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me and said, 'Do not be afraid.'"

There may be times when our ability to trust is severely tested. But our
faith in God - in His ability to hold us secure - must be independent of
the force of the wind. Though the winds may blow, we remain in His hands
and must not fear; "If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we
serve is able to save us from it, but even if He does not..." (Daniel 3:17-18).

Most storms last longer than we prefer. But our Heavenly Father is leading us to the place where we can have peace, contentment, and even joy, whether the sun is shining or the storm is raging. He is calling us to be free of fear; calling us to trust Him more and experience His calm within the storm.
Take each day at a time and wait patiently upon the Lord. He is Never late and His timing is always the best.