Peace In The Storm

"In peace, I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety"(Psalm 4:8).

Living in South Mississippi, I have accepted severe storms and hurricanes as cousins to spring and summer. They may come without warning and in different forms and intensities. This happened this past Friday. We received alerts of expected severe weather in the area. I was not alarmed because this is typical, and I did not plan to be out in the weather. But when the storm came raging early Saturday morning before dawn with winds and thunder that were so strong the house trembled, I was on full alert. Trying to stay calm, I prayed before starting down the hall to look out the front door. Then tornado sirens began wailing. Fear took over. I woke my son, ushering him quickly to his tub with the lantern and blankets in hand. In the tub, we realized Audrey was missing, and we had nothing to cover our heads if there was a tornado. I urged him to get pillows while I convinced Audrey to join us. During this time, the thunder continuing to roar and tree branches swaying and sweeping the roof. I prayed intensely and searched almost every local news media for updates. At the same time, my son placed the pillow under his head and drifted back into a deep sleep, modeling exactly how to endure the storm. Be still and rest in faith. Even in the storm, he was not afraid; his sleep was sweet (Proverbs 3:24).

This experience can be seen as an analogy for the storms of life; they come unannounced, and no matter how prepared you are, sometimes fear and emotions get the best of you. In the midst of the story, draw near to the Lord and anchor your faith in Him. Because in Him, there is safety, peace, and rest in the storm.