As we are facing Hurricane Ian currently in Central and South Florida, we are praying for Peace and Protection.
Isaiah 41:10 say:
"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 right hand." -Isaiah 41:10
It is an abundant theme in the bible that God it with us through storms, both figuratively and literally.
Yesterday (Tuesday) morning, we were watching the path of a Category 3 hurricane hitting the west coast and coming right through the heart of Sumter County. As the day progressed, the track shifted further and further South. This moved the worst of the weather from us to our neighbors in South Florida.
With a storm this large, the vast majority of the Florida Peninsula is feeling effects from it. Whether you have been through many years of hurricanes or not, it can be frightening not knowing what will happen, or how our houses and families will hold up.
I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. -Psalm 34:4
We must remember though that we are not in control. We can make choices that may affect us and those around us, but ultimately we must have faith and know that our Lord is with us and He loves us.
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.-1 Peter 5:7
In Matthew Chapter 8 There was Jesus and the disciples followed him, then:
"Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!” -Matthew 8:24-27
When you feel the anxiety and fear creeping in as this storm is moving through, remember that God is in control. He calmed the seas and the winds. He loves us, and we can cast our burdens on him for comfort.
Prayer
Over the next 48 hours, pray for peace and protection for everyone impacted by this storm. Pray for safety as the winds and rain continue on throughout tonight and tomorrow. Then once the storm is over, please be in prayer for all of the first responders, linemen, and others that are helping with storm clean up.
Praise You In This Storm
The lyrics to the song, "Praise You In This Storm" by Casting Crowns sums it all up right now:
I was sure by now God, You would have reached down And wiped our tears away Stepped in and saved the day And once again I say, "A-men" and it's still rainin'
But as the thunder rolls I barely hear Your whisper through the rain "I'm with you" And as Your mercy falls I'll raise my hands and praise the God who gives And takes away
And I'll praise You in this storm And I will lift my hands For You are who You are No matter where I am And every tear I've cried You hold in Your hand You never left my side And though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm
You can Listen Here:
If you are in need of any help with clean up after the storm, please let us know.
I am praying for all of you, our neighbors, and our beautiful little church as we weather this storm for the next couple of days.
I pray in Jesus's, Most Holy and Precious name,
-Jenna