Safe and Sound

Several days ago, I met a good friend at a local restaurant. As I pulled into the parking lot, I noticed storm clouds in the distance. I checked to make sure both our car windows were up and went on in to find her. We enjoyed a long chat. She shared what God was doing in her life. I talked about some of the happenings in my own.

As we sat and visited, the storm rolled in. The sky outside the window grew increasingly dark. The winds picked up and the rains beat down. Once, the lights inside the restaurant flickered off and we sat in darkness for a few seconds. However, the storm outside did not interrupt our conversation at all. We remained secure and dry in the safety of the restaurant. After our hour had expired and the storm had passed, I left my friend feeling encouraged and refreshed.

As I drove home, I was shocked at the amount of damage caused by the storm. Roads were blocked from uprooted trees and power lines had fallen. Houses were missing sections of roof and vehicles sat crunched under broken limbs. I had to take a lengthy detour just to get to my house. From the looks of the damage, it was clear tornado-like winds had accompanied the storm through our small town.

I smiled at how oblivious my friend and I had been to the dangers around us. We had watched the storm from a safe place. It had not produced undo stress or worry. We felt protected.

My relationship with God is also a safe place. Like most, I have watched numerous storms roll into my life. Not just refreshing rain showers, but violent storms capable of causing lasting damage. Yet, when I rest in the safety my heavenly Father provides, He shelters me from the dangers and stress of life. He provides a safe and secure place to wait out the storm. I experience peace in the protection He provides.

My Father also blesses me with Godly friendships that provide a similar safety. I am so grateful for the relationships He has planted in my life. Friends to provide encouragement and support. Girlfriends that will challenge me, correct me, and speak Truth as they counsel me. People who love me through my mistakes and provide a safe place for me to be real and expose my brokenness.

Where do you turn when you see dark clouds approaching? Do you know that Jesus awaits with open arms to pull you into safety? Cry out to Him and He will hear your call. He desires to provide your every need.

Are you already secure in a relationship with Christ? If so, there is no need to search for any other means of protection. He is all you need. Rest in Him until the storm clouds pass you by. His arms provide safety and warmth, peace and protection, and above all, love and eternal life.

How lovely is Your dwelling place, LORD of Hosts.
Even a sparrow finds a home, and a swallow, a nest for herself where she places her young-
near Your altars, LORD of Hosts, my King and my God.
How happy are those who reside in Your house, who praise you continually. Selah.
Psalm 84:1,3-4