Have you ever noticed the sights, smells, and sounds before a thunderstorm?
Here in Mississippi, we’ve officially reached the thick of summer. And while it’s hard to believe that we’re in the middle of July, it is unbelievable what a mixture of heat and humidity can do to our weather system. Just a few days ago, we received a massive storm that produced thunder, lightning, and even a few tornados in neighboring cities.
But before the rain came down, all was quiet.
Everything was eerily calm before the wind roared, soared, and screamed. Dark grey clouds arose and spread as far as the eye could see. There were no sounds to be heard. Not a car, dog barking, or even the rustling of wind. Actually, for a short time, the world felt like it stood still for a short time.
Nevertheless, mere moments later, a downright drenching downpour occurred.
In today’s world, we are tempted to focus on the storm. With a 24/7 news cycle and social media constantly telling us what’s happening, our minds rarely rest. A long list of to-dos and worries can keep us from looking to the Father.
After all, how often do we notice the still, small moments between the madness?
In Psalm 46, we see that the Lord is a mighty fortress. Yet, in verses 1-9, the Psalmist doesn’t say that life will be free of storms. Rather, he shows Who is with us in times of distress … and what we can do to avoid some of life’s worries.
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters His voice, the earth melts.
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how He has brought desolations on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
He burns the chariots with fire (v. 1-9, ESV).
Whew! Isn’t that beautiful?
Not only do we see that through Him, we’re given the hope of refuge, strength, presence, and help, but He is also powerful enough to cause striving to cease, wars to end, and even take down chariots with fire.
He is ready and willing to fight for us!
However, verse 10 provides a simple, important reminder of what to do in the moments before, during, and after whatever storm might arise: Be still and know.
Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth! (v. 10, emphasis added.)
No matter what type of struggle we face, He is there. And if we look for Him amid the calm, we will be more attuned to gladly exalt Him, no matter what situation comes our way.
In the storm, He is there.
In the heat of the battle, He is there.
In the calm before the storm, He is there.
The next time you fear a storm coming, praise Him for his power, might, and goodness! I pray that you would take a moment to enjoy the stillness and get to know the One in control.
