"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand."
The Red River is going down in Fargo but that didn't stop one Lutheran School from being inundated by the flood waters. A dike was breached last night and despite an enourmous effort by the National Guard and other volunteers, it's feared that the school is gone. In my town, the Sheyenne River is expected to crest just below where storm and sewer drains will be closed. We're under a Winter Storm watch for tomorrow through Tuesday and that brings the possibility for more moisture.
I am hanging on to this verse and remembering that God is with me. I'm taking a new look at the part where God says "do not be dismayed." He's not only telling us not to fear but to not let what we see, the circumstances, bring us down and get the best of us.
Whether it's the flood or other "insurmountable" problems in my life, I'm choosing to trust God. If I keep my eyes on Him I won't be "dismayed." He will give me strength and help me. I've heard it said that those fighting the flood have superhuman strength and I believe it. The strength and energy to fill and place sandbags for 3o hours at a time without a break has to come from the Lord.
To me, the verse says two things. First, God tells us not to fear. Fearing something will not stop it from happening; it can however immobilize us so that we're unable to do anything.
Secondly, if the situation we fear does occur, the Lord tells us not to be dismayed; He is our God. He will be with us to strengthen us and help us. Nothing that occurs comes as a surprise to Him. I believe with all my heart that God has the power to stop floodwaters, heal disease, provide financial miracles, etc. But sometimes, for whatever reason, He chooses not to. But, no matter what the circumstance, He will always be there with us. What else do we need?
Cyndy:
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry you are all going through this after already having such a hard winter. I couldn't sleep so I thought I would read all the wonderful posts from everyone that I never got to yesterday.
Praying for you...Roberta Anne
This goes along with
ReplyDeleteMatthew 6:27
Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
Something I need reminded of often.
Praying God's will for a reprieve from the destructive weather, and God's blessings on those putting forth the valiant effort.
Praying for you, God will bring you strength.
ReplyDeleteTake care and keep us updated.
My heart breaks every time I see all these valiant people making such heroic efforts to help themselves and their neighbors. I know the Lord sees their efforts and will reward them in ways we cannot imagine!
ReplyDeleteI continue to pray for the Lord's will in all of the events surrounding your area. I know the fear and dismay of watching what you fear most in the world coming to pass right before your eyes.
I also know the joy and peace of the Lord once you lay the fear and dismay at His feet. I pray for that joy and peace for you and for every individual who is facing the trials of this weather calamity.
I love you, my dear sister and my heart and prayers are ever with you.
Many warm hugs..............
Diane
I too am sorry and worried for you all.I will pray for you all...Ann
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