A Light in the Storm (Matthew 10:7)

Hurricane Florence slammed the east coast of North Carolina and left behind devastating flood waters. Cleanup crews arrived from other states to help residents who experienced loss of property and loved ones. The Disaster Relief Team from Balboa Baptist Church in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas prayed with each homeowner before leaving the property and going to the next address on the list. One man said he didn’t go to church but planned to start soon. When asked what changed his mind, he said he’d lost everything. He was present when his house was torn down, and he saw these words written on the frame of his house: “The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand” (Matthew 10:7). Jesus’ words were a light in this man’s storm.  

The disciples experienced fierce winds and high waves out on the Sea of Galilee. Yet, Jesus was sleeping in the stern of the boat. Seasoned fishermen panicked and woke Jesus. “Don’t you care if we drown?” they said. “[Jesus] got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm” (Mark 4:39).

Think About It
Fear overwhelmed me in a scuba diving accident that nearly took my life. Like the man in North Carolina, I promised God I would go back to church and get my life right with Him. I am thankful God used seven strong men to rescue me that day. I cannot imagine what it's like to lose everything, and I sympathize with people who survive the storms and endure great loss. 

Pray About It
Thank you, O Lord, for your faithfulness, that you promise never to leave or forsake us. In the storms of life, help us to look up and see your light shining through the loss and destruction. In Jesus' name, Amen.
 
            

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