A mass of ominous clouds swirled closer and closer. Within a few minutes, they slammed the door shut on the sun. Almost instantly, a cheerful, bright afternoon vanished.
A piercing alarm sounded. The weather radio blared warnings of severe thunderstorms in our area.
Winds roared. Sheets of water ran across the lake. Trees struggled to stay upright. Their trunks bent back and forth like a boxer pelted by his opponent. Thunder crashed. Lightning cracked nearby. Torrential rains slammed trees, bushes, and flowers relentlessly. Water gushed from downspouts towards the lake. My normally serene sanctuary turned into a horrendous tempest.
Finally, only gentle rain hit the roof in the darkness. Morning would reveal the damage.
As the sun rose, I returned to my favorite spot on the patio to survey the damage. Surprisingly, only a few small, dead branches and palm fronds littered the yard. Strong trees stood proudly. Bushes glistened. Flowers sparkled. The horrific storm cleansed the landscape and shook loose limbs free.
Though bent and plummeted by the intense wind and rain, the trees stood firm. Their flexibility enabled them to bend but not break. Deep roots anchored them securely. Intertwining roots of nearby trees added further support.
Like my majestic trees, when we are flexible during the storms and rooted with Jesus, we can withstand life’s trials. Difficulties become manageable when we are supported by those around us.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned.
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
Isaiah 43: 2
Heavenly Father, thank you for holding us up during our storms. Amen
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