Tuesday, August 9, 2016

Philippians, Chapter 2, Verse 12

So then, my beloved, obedient as you have always been, not only when I am present but all the more now when I am absent, work out your salvation with fear and trembling.

Be good even when no one is watching is the old man’s advice. We who are chosen by the Lord are the light bearers showing the way to the will of God in a dark world. The world is a turbulent place fraught with evil beyond imagining. We must be wise as parents of children who build a home with both a prayer room and a storm cellar for the times when a tornado might come. Our church is such a home both a prayer room and storm cellar against the world.

Tornadoes[1]

Tornadoes can be natural, or supernatural, events. As a creation of God, they are under His power and control. If tornadoes are to occur in our lives, and possibly present a challenge to us, then we must deal with the reality of this powerful occurrence, and how it could affect us. Outside of a storm cellar, there is little we can do physically to prepare for one of these whirlwinds. In case of danger, I suggest that we do move to safety, but also pray and fall on our face before God, and ask His protection and mercy. Only He can divert such a powerful thing away from us.

In the recent tornado event in my state, I had to do this. An E F 3 Tornado that was a mile wide, spinning at 175 miles per hour, and advancing forward at a pace of 50 miles per hour, was heading straight for my house. We already had reports that it was a mile from my house, and headed my way. This was too powerful for me, but there was Someone who was more than able to help me. I immediately began to pray, and ask for God’s help and protection. It says in God’s Word that if we ask anything of the Father, according to His will (which is to protect and love his own), in Jesus name, that it would be done. I believe in this promise because God said it. God answered my prayer in His abundant mercy, and I am forever grateful that he protected my home and family. I encourage all to do the same, and not to wait until there is an emergency either. We should all seek God’s face early, and establish this relationship of trust and protection and provision. God is faithful to hear our prayers.