In the Storm

And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? Mark 4:38-40

It seems we've been in the midst of hurricanes and fires for weeks now. The storm, whether fire or water or wind, has taken precedent over all other world events. 

When the storms happen in our lives, whether medical, financial, or sudden death, nothing else matters ... but God.

God is who we run to when there is nowhere else to go. Funny how that happens. Where is God when we think we don't need Him? 

Like the prodigal's father, He stands and watches, waiting for our return. 

In Mark 4:36, Jesus had been preaching from a ship so the people could see and hear. When he finished the disciples set sail on a calm sea with Jesus in the boat. Jesus lay down on a pillow and went to sleep. His earthly body was tired and needed a rest, but He knew, as Sovereign God, what would take place shortly. When the storm came up the ship began to take on water. The disciples ran to find Jesus. They even asked Him if He cared that they drowned! What a question. Don't be too quick to judge.

How often in our pleading for help do we ask God why He allows bad things to happen to innocent children, good people and really everyone. 

When the disciples called on Him, His answer to the winds and the sea was "Peace be still."

Then He asked them why they were so fearful. The disciples were terrified even more because they saw the power of the One they had just questioned.

Jesus is our Sovereign God. Do you understand that no matter what, He is always in control, working things for our good? This storm was for good, to awaken the disciples to who He is. 

He did care about them. He does care about us, about YOU! 

So whatever storm you are in, let Him whisper "Peace, be still" for you. 

John 3:16

Blessings, 

Gail

Hey Kids:

With all the hurricanes, it's a great time to practice your map skills. 

Can you tell someone what direction the hurricane will move? (I'm not sure the weather man can either. Remember God is in control).

Why do you think a storm slows down when it makes landfall?

If you have a topographical map, notice what land structures will continue to slow the storm until it finally dies out.

What other factors might contribute to the demise of the storm?

Hint: What about other weather fronts? cooler air in northern territory?

What do you think would be the most fun part of being a meteorologist?  

What would be the most scary part? 

Whatever field of study God leads you into, remember He is in control. You don't have to be afraid of what weather or man can do to you. 

Be all He has called you to be.