Letting God Lead Devotions #24 – Finding the Calm During the Storm!

Scripture:  “He casteth forth his ice like morsels: who can stand before his cold?”- Psalm 147:17

Examination: This is a beautiful psalm describing the majesty and power of God. The writer praises the Lord for who He is and what He is capable of doing.

Application: There are many parts of the nation that are in the grips of a massive winter storm. Where I live, we are facing a huge ice storm, which could disrupt power, transportation, and the normalcy of life. According to the National Weather Service, it takes as little as ¼ inch of ice build-up on trees and power lines to cause damage!

It is so easy for fears to escalate within us as we worry about what might happen to us, our extended families, or beloved friends during these times. In an attempt to seek some sort of control, we rush to the markets to buy bread, milk, and toilet paper, which seems to provide a wee bit of peace to our souls, albeit temporary. The moment we scroll through social media or turn on the weather channel that fear returns! What can we do to dispel the anxiety that threatens to overcome us?

Fortunately, there are ways to lessen the concerns that we all experience in challenging times, and they are found in the Bible. Here are a few things to remember when we need help managing those worries.

1. Remember that it is God who controls all things, including the weather!
   1.  “He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly.” – Psalm 147:15
2. Remember that it is God who protects us.
   1. “There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” – Psalm 91:10
3. Remember that God is faithful to His Word.
   1. “Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.” – Psalm 119:90
4. Remember that God can do anything.
   1. “Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:” – Jeremiah 32:17
5. Remember that God loves you.
   1. “The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” – Jeremiah 31:3

This weekend, be sure to remember that no matter what happens during this winter storm (or any other storm in your life), you can rest assured that our God is in control, loves you, and watches over you 24/7. When your fears become overwhelming, take time to pray and seek comfort through His Word. His Spirit will calm your heart and fill your soul with His peace.

There are many other verses in the Bible that provide peace and comfort. If you have some favorites, please share them in the comments. It may help someone else!

Memory Verse: “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” – Psalm 56:3

When peace like a river, attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul.

It is well (it is well), with my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

It is well (it is well), with my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.

(from “It is Well With My Soul” by Horatio Spafford)