God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling.
Psalm 46:1-3

Looking back over the past few months, there has been a flood of circumstances and situations that have kept me in a whirlwind. It seems like every area of life has been under a barrage of attacks: family, health, job, finances, discouragement, depression, and more. But, we are still afloat. Our heads are above the water. We are going to come through, because Jesus is faithful!

We will not lose heart. We will not lay down and quit. We have come too far, and have seen too many times that the promises of God are true. He said He would never leave us or forsake us. He will be with us at all times.

I will admit, I have been discouraged. I have felt alone and forsaken. But I think it was more because people – friends and family – were unaware of what was going on. It seemed like no one cared. With my natural eyes, it seemed like I was alone. It even seemed like during these storms that my phone was silent, no texts or calls from anyone.

Perhaps the phone was silent, perhaps it seemed that no one was aware, to see where I would turn. Would I cry out to people, or would I cry out to God? Would I look for sympathy, or would I seek the only one who could truly help?

Believe me, I don’t always run to God first. I should. Sometimes I think I can handle whatever comes by myself. But I’m beginning to think God allows the storms to come more frequent to see how quickly I will turn to Him first.

I know God loves and cares about every area of my life. He created and fashioned me in His image. He has called me His child. He has plans for my life, in every stage of life. He is not going to leave me alone, to figure it out on my own. He will lead and guide me, even through what seems to be uncharted areas. He will bring me through the difficult areas. I may get bumped and bruised along the way. I may stumble. But Jesus is always faithful! He comes to my rescue, He heals my wounds, and He restores me.

This flood of trials will not overtake me. It will make me stronger. It will make me run to Jesus. When the waves crash all around me and the waters rise, I will lift up my eyes and I will cry out to Jesus to come to my rescue. He will either calm the storm around me, or He will pull me up above the waves and allow me to walk on water with Him!

I will not be afraid. I will not be discouraged. If no one else is aware of the circumstances, God is. He has it all under control. He will bring me through it, or bring me out of it. Whatever happens, I know it will be His strong hand leading me. And it is all for His glory!

But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob,
And He who formed you, O Israel:
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name;
You are Mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
For I am the Lord your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
Isaiah 43:1-3a