We had some pretty crazy weather in my neck of the woods last night. Tornadoes popped up in a few locations nearby and many of my friends to my north were affected by the extreme weather.

Our tornado sirens didn’t go off last night, but some folks in nearby towns spent their evenings in safe, secure locations (that means they were in their basements). Some were without power. Homes and properties were damaged or destroyed. It was a difficult evening and perhaps even more difficult to wake this morning to see the damage in the light of day.

I just replaced a wall hanging in my family room with this quote. “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” (Anonymous) I’m sure there wasn’t much dancing last night, but I think we can learn a few things from this quote.

During the storms of this life, we must know that God is with us and He is not going to leave us alone. There is safety and security in the arms of God our Father. There is no reason to be afraid.

It’s difficult to move from not being afraid to dancing. It is a big step. But when we do so, we acknowledge that God is in control and that we are living within His peace.

When we are in the midst of our own storms of life, it’s so good to know that they will pass. Sometimes even leaving without a trace of being there. There are affects from each life-storm, but in many cases they are good. Some may be short lived. Others long lasting. Some may take years to see the outcome, while others are immediate. Regardless of the storm, things will change. Nothing will ever be the same.

What matters is how we handle the storm and make it to the other side.

In the midst of Job’s storm of life, there is a section where God speaks to Job. There are a few verses during this monologue that speak to me.

“Then the Lord answered Job out of the storm.” (Job 38:1 – NIV)

“Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm.” (Job 40:6 – NIV)

In the midst of our life’s storms, we must listen for God’s voice. He is there. He is with you.

And maybe when you’ve come to know God’s peace as Job did, you too can say, “I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted.” (Job 42:2 – NIV) Job learned to dance in the rain of his storm.

For any of you who are facing a storm, tornado or not, be encouraged by these words written by the Apostle Peter. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 – NIV) Seek God. Look to Him. Lean on Him when it gets too difficult for you. He cares for you.

If you are facing a storm, I’d be happy to be praying for you during this time. Drop me a line. You can be assured I’ll pray.

I also ask for you to be praying for my friends in Colorado who were affected by these storms last night. There is much to do today…and we’re in for another round of crazy weather this afternoon. Stay safe wherever you are and remember, God is with you.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna