Explanation or Excuse?
It’s been 2 years (plus) since I’ve written a new blog. The last one was “There Goes That Cloud Again” which shared about our move from PA to a new ministry in Ohio. And that ministry is part of the reason why this blog has been ignored.
I started the blog when I was home caring for Peter’s mother. As the Lord taught me things it was wonderful to be able to share them with you. Then we moved to Ohio and I began my ministry here as Director of Women’s Ministry and Prayer. Not only has that kept me busy (which I love!), but it has also given me a new outlet for sharing the things God has been teaching me. I love the women of Community Bible Church, and love sharing with them.
Recently I’ve been reminded of my neglect of this opportunity to jot down and share the things I’m learning in my ongoing journey with God. And so, after a pause of 2 years, I am once again sharing my heart and thoughts with you through “A View from the Sparrow’s Nest.” I trust that God will use these words to encourage your heart.
Those Windy Days
This morning I was reading the account of Jesus calming the storm. If you remember the story, the disciples were facing a life-threatening storm while Jesus remained asleep and undisturbed. The disciples urged Jesus to wake up, convinced that they were all going to drown. Instead of sharing in their panic, Jesus simply spoke, and the “wind and the raging waters” became calm.
This was a powerful demonstration of the authority of Jesus. The disciples were amazed and awed that “even the winds” obeyed the command of Jesus.
Many sermons have been preached on this text, and the point that is most often made is God’s power to calm the storms that we face in our lives. And, thankfully, He can. But there’s a verse in the Psalms that adds another dimension to this truth.
Psalm 148 is a Psalm of praise. In fact, the word “praise” is mentioned 12 times in the 14 verses of this chapter, but tucked among all the praise is the phrase, “stormy winds that do His bidding.” (vs. 8) It’s exactly what the disciples saw demonstrated in a powerful way that day on the Sea of Galilee. The stormy winds obeyed the command of the Creator and became calm.
But that verse also gives us the assurance that God remains in control of all the “stormy winds” in our lives and can use them to accomplish His purposes. They all must do His “bidding.” Sometimes He commands them to be still, and sometimes He allows them to continue blowing. Both are under His command for His purposes. Both are doing His bidding.
I find great encouragement in that reminder on stormy days when I feel blown about by the circumstances in my life. Even the “stormy winds” are under His control and will be used for His purpose and His glory until the time when He says, “Be still!”
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