A ridge of ominous clouds the color of charcoal hung low on the horizon. Heavy with snow. Laden with arctic air. Forecasters warned of dangerous wind chills as ferocious winds would surely howl across our beloved mountains, hurling massive amounts of snow in its wake.
As I peered out the window toward the setting sun, the wall of clouds darkened, shadowed by the twilight. The wind began to rise. There was a surging now — an urgency — like dust billowing and swirling around stampeding hooves.
I could sense God’s Presence. His protective watchcare. Even with trepidation building in my heart, I knew I was not alone. God was with me just as He has been with me through the storms of brokenness that swirl and billow across my weary spirit.
I pondered the ways of God as I watched the impending storm.
Life’s mirror stunned me. The reflective echo of my personal storm with the approaching winter storm mesmerized me — the visual spoke volumes and deep within, my spirit stirred. I felt hope. I felt courage.
I felt awe.
Just this morning I had read Deuteronomy 33:26-29 (NLT):
“There is no one like the God of Israel.
He rides across the heavens to help you,
across the skies in majestic splendor.The eternal God is your refuge,
and his everlasting arms are under you.
He drives out the enemy before you;
he cries out, ‘Destroy them!’So Israel will live in safety,
prosperous Jacob in security,
in a land of grain and new wine,
while the heavens drop down dew.How blessed you are, O Israel!
Who else is like you, a people saved by the Lord?
He is your protecting shield
and your triumphant sword!
Your enemies will cringe before you,
and you will stomp on their backs!”
I could hear the hoofbeats of His white stallion racing on the clouds as I envisioned the Lord riding upon the heavens to help me. Yes! He is my refuge, just as He is yours. Beneath us are His everlasting arms catching us when we fall, securing our footing, holding us to His heart.
I believe the Lord is angered when the enemy assails and torments His child. Can you hear the hoofbeats, too? Can you see Him riding the fierce winds of the storm with sword drawn commanding, “Destroy them!” as He approaches our enemies?
Oh my … what a mighty God! He is faithful. He is true.
And He responds with swiftness to the cries of His children.
Blessed be the Name of the Lord.
Very timely, Nan. Thank you for this! Blessings…
Oh Cathy, I’m so very thankful this ministered to you. There is a lot of sifting and shaking going on within the Body of Christ. Isn’t it wonderful to know the faithfulness of God? He is amazing. If you need to talk or vent, I’m here. Love you 🙂
One of my very favorite passages of scripture! Thank you for the encouragement I needed today! You are a blessing!
It’s one of my favorites too Norma. I LOVE the visual it creates! I’m thankful you were encouraged 🙂