In life, a hard may sweep in like a raging fire. In horror we tremble after a fireball smashes into our world, spreading voracious, hot flames. Their appetites attempt to consume everything around us. Our dreams and hopes. Our security and stability. Everything we’ve built. First our heart races, then teeters on the brink of stopping. Shock sets in. The pain in the soul sears like the licks of white-flames that race up beams, destroying the framework of our life.
As the initial onslaught begins to subside, we stand shaken, assessing the damage that depicts a foreign landscape. Pops and snaps startle as pockets of fire fight to destroy what remains. Swirls of black smoke drift up in devilish mocking, creating stench clinging to our hair, skin and nostrils. We are stunned to see the world around us moving on in ‘normal mode’ while our world lays devastated.
Several years ago, one of our own reeled from such an assault. As we stared in disbelief at the heaped, charred destruction remaining from the fire-storm, we realized some truths.
Truth #1. This is not the moment to make critical decisions. Triage responses may be necessary, but time is needed for the smoke to clear and the hot spots to subside and cool.
Time is needed to assess what remains in the ashes. Is the foundation still firm? Are there structural beams that stand scathed but strong? Are there treasures buried in the rubble that miraculously withstood the intense heat?
Above all, time is needed to sit in God’s presence in utter quiet. Unmoving. Unthinking. Space for the suffocating soul to inhale the pure, glory-scented air that surrounds the Lord. Freedom to cling to His side until you feel the movement of His Spirit alive and stirring within you. Stillness, as long as needed, for His mercy and grace to minister to you.
Truth #2. Whatever the source of your fire-storm, God was not taken by surprise. He didn’t walk up after the fact. He was present as the initial spark grew into a glowing ember, morphing into your inferno. As He watched its approach, He was present, His arm of protection around you. He was preparing you in ways you won’t comprehend until you look back over your shoulder. Upon impact, He was right there, already whispering love and encouragement into your heart. “I am here beloved. I’ve got you. I won’t let you go.”
Truth #3. The Lord established promises centuries ago that will stand firm beneath the shifting ground under your feet. Promises He made with you and this crisis on His heart. That He will uphold and strengthen you. Promises to make beauty from the ashes; to bind up your broken heart; for a hope and a future.
If you are reeling from such a storm, read through His words of promise. Let them soak deep into your parched soul. They are trustworthy because He is faithful.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 34:18
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Psalm 147:3
“He lifts the needy from the ash heap.”
Psalm 113:7
“As my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.”
Psalm 61:2-3
“He will bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes…
And a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”
Isaiah 61:3
“I cling to You; Your right hand upholds me.”
Psalm 63:8
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
Plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
Plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11
Photo by Mark Fletcher-Brown on Unsplash
