A gentle rain is glorious to watch and listen to. The peaceful sound of raindrops pattering off the leaves of trees, or plopping into puddles on my deck is wonderfully relaxing. I enjoy the rain and how it refreshes everything it touches. Without it, our world is void of its lush beauty. But this past week, a gentle downpour turned into a frightening, torrential deluge. Sheets of rain, strong winds—thunder and lightning ripped through our neighborhood. My eavestrough came apart because it was over-powered by gushing water that flowed down my grass and out to the water-logged street.
My tranquil thoughts soon turned to worry that my home will flood; that my garden will drown in excess water—that my trees will be shredded by pellets of ice. The calming effects of a peaceful rain shower quickly flipped to fear and anxiety. To spin this around, I can’t help drawing an analogy to my own life. There are days when I feel at peace, the sun is out and a light breeze is cooling my skin. I’m happy and content. Then, pow! Storm clouds from nowhere brew up and my peace is shattered. I’m certain you’ve been there as well. Let’s face it, life is challenging at times.
Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NLT)
This verse tells us that Jesus already knew we’d encounter both peace and trouble in our lives. It’s the last part of this verse that really piques my interest. That no matter what ‘rains’ down upon us, we are encouraged to take heart because Jesus has already overcome the world and any issue we face. THAT’S GOOD NEWS!
I found something recently that fits right in. It read like this, ‘Don’t think about the bad weather, but instead seek peace through Christ. Meditate on His promises and be strong. The sun doesn’t always have to be out to give the Lord thanks, so continue to give Him praise.’
When blue skies are chased away by storm clouds and soothing rain transforms into oceans of rising water, what do we do? The answer is simple; We turn to Jesus when our peace is overtaken by fear.
I’ll leave you with this simple, yet massively comforting verse from Psalms. Meditate on it and memorize it. It’s a keeper and a promise to us on those days when it pours cats and dogs. “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.” (Psalms 4:8 NLT)
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by stormy weather and your life fills with worry, remember our Savior Jesus Christ has already stepped into your situation and will grant you peace.
He’s the only umbrella you will ever need.
Paul Smyth
