Changing Tides
Louise Harris
In recent times we have witnessed very stormy weather and its effect on the sea. There have been some spectacular photos of high waves crashing onto the shore, but then very sadly the tragedy of loss of life.
The sea can be so beautiful, calm and balmy, wonderful for a summer swim, but it can also batter us and be extremely perilous.
Life can be very similar - times of calm and quiet with smooth seas, and then huge storms to withstand and live through. Some of the storms can knock us off our feet, and leave us gasping for air, but God promises us that we will not be overwhelmed.
Isaiah 43 tells us: ‘When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. When you pass through rivers, they will not overwhelm you’ (Isaiah 43: 2). Our heavenly Father will not let us drown, even if we feel we might.
The comfort is that He is with us, He will not leave us, and no storm lasts forever. It can certainly leave its impact which we then have to deal with, live through, and recover from - but times of peace are always around the corner.
One of my Mum's sayings has been “nothing lasts forever, good or bad”. She knew that good times come and go, and so do bad times. Storms don’t rage for ever, they eventually calm, and Jesus is the master at speaking to the storm. ‘He got up, rebuked the wind, and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still” . Then the wind died down and it was completely calm’ (Mark 4:39). What a wonderful picture that is.
So, if you are going through a stormy time like me then hang on tight to Him, and a bit like you do when feeling seasick, keep your eye on the horizon. It’s important to keep looking forward to better times ahead.
Here are some verses that are helping me right now:
When my heart is overwhelmed lead me to the rock that is higher than I. (Psalm 61:2)
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)
Be strong and let your heart take courage all you who hope in the Lord. (Psalm 31:24)
For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
