Yep, we're in the midst of another winter storm. When it's all said and done, some areas will have received 20 or more inches of snow. Fighting the flood is now taking place in blizzard conditions. This storm is expected to last through midday tomorrow with another possible storm entering this area over the weekend. How much does God expect us to handle?
The answer is, He doesn't expect us to handle any of this by ourselves. He is with us every step of the way. God is in control of the rivers, the rising waters and the snow and strong winds. He has already brought the river levels down much faster than anticipated. He's bringing this new moisture in the form of snow instead of rain which is a huge blessing. Neighbor is helping neighbor in an awesome example of what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says "Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus."
We can be joyful in the midst of trouble. I don't believe that God expects us to be happy that our homes are flooding or that our finances are tight. But we can and should be joyful that no matter what the circumstance, we know that it's not catching God by surprise. We can be thankful that God is with us and He's a big, big God. We can be filled with joy knowing that we can approach the throne of God boldly and talk to our Father.
The answer is, He doesn't expect us to handle any of this by ourselves. He is with us every step of the way. God is in control of the rivers, the rising waters and the snow and strong winds. He has already brought the river levels down much faster than anticipated. He's bringing this new moisture in the form of snow instead of rain which is a huge blessing. Neighbor is helping neighbor in an awesome example of what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says "Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus."
We can be joyful in the midst of trouble. I don't believe that God expects us to be happy that our homes are flooding or that our finances are tight. But we can and should be joyful that no matter what the circumstance, we know that it's not catching God by surprise. We can be thankful that God is with us and He's a big, big God. We can be filled with joy knowing that we can approach the throne of God boldly and talk to our Father.
So, do I want it to continue storming? Of course not. But, I can still rejoice knowing that God is in control.
You are so right, we are to give thanks IN all things, not necessarily FOR all things. No one wants to give thanks when hardships hit them, but we are still to praie God for who He is. We were created to love Him!!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post!
So enjoyed this post, take care and God Bess !
ReplyDeleteI absolutely love your outlook, Cyndy, and I thank you for these reminders. It's easy to thank God when things go our way, but God is the same yesterday, today and forever ...
ReplyDeleteHello Cyn...
ReplyDeleteBless your hearts!!! My friend, I am continuing to keep ya'll in my prayers! I've been following the news and weather...it's just hard for me to imagine your circumstances! God is so good to take care of us though...He is faithful!!!
Lord Bless...
Chari
God Bless you my friend!
ReplyDeleteStay warm!
.::Tam::.
My sister and I were talking just this afternoon about the heoric acts of so many North Dakotans and others who are there giving it their all to try to save homes, churches, methods of livlihood. So much courage and grace amidst so much devastation, and no one running around whining about why the government is not there pulling them out! Or if they are, neither she nor I have seen them. The real pioneer spirit that helped make this nation great still abides within so many of our neighbors. I will always believe the root of the pioneerying spirit was our forefather's love for their God and their appreciation for the opportunities this country affored them. Would that we could all remember that today. Praying for you all Cyndy and so full of pride and respect and admiration for you and your neighbors!
ReplyDeleteDi
Hi Cyn, I am just checking to see if you are okay!!! I am ashamed for complaining about the weather here. Your picture speaks volumes and says you at least have power. Hope all is well ~Athella
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