There’s a dark cloud on the horizon — the deep charcoal winter-kind-of-dark cloud. A storm is coming with significant snowfall and fierce winds. A gray veil is settling over the mountain as the snow clouds roll in, softening the harsh brown of winter. Do I have enough strength for the day that surely will come in like a lion and wreak havoc across our mountain?
Life has been hard. I’m tired and weary.
God promises enough strength for the day
I sipped my coffee as I watched the sultry winter clouds deepen over the ridge.
To my right, down towards the old apple tree, a burst of sunlight made its way through the clouds, and I could hear her song — a cardinal rejoicing in the warmth of the unexpected light. Her song trilled across the impending darkness — perhaps in spite of the darkness. She comforted my restless spirit.
Do you suppose she knows the storm is coming?
Do you suppose her song was spontaneous praise to her Creator?
Or perhaps an exclamation for God’s grace in the moment because the burst of light had strengthened her with its warmth?
I sipped my coffee and pondered.
I know my God is with me
My husband’s dementia is growing worse, especially in the midst of this polar vortex we are experiencing in our North Carolina mountains. I know our tomorrows are going to be difficult as we travel in uncharted waters. Sometimes I feel afraid. Overwhelmed. I don’t like it.
But I also know my God is with me.
And I will praise Him.
Though sultry clouds are on the horizon, I will give Him praise for the moments of grace that strengthen and encourage me.
In Deuteronomy 33:25, the Lord promised Asher, “You will have enough strength for each day.” I believe He has promised me the same.
And you.
Strength for each day …
New mercies every morning …
But I think praise is a key component to receiving these promises because praise ushers in God’s presence. It opens the windows of heaven so the blessings can rain down. Praise fills the darkness with His glorious light and unfurls our wings of eagles so we might rise above the storm.
And on those days when my lips seem sealed, and praise remains stuffed down deep, I hope to remember the cardinal and her song in the face of the storm.
Will you?
Storms Never Take God by Surprise
When storm clouds billow and darkness surrounds, will you think of the cardinal and offer praise to the One who loves you? The One who is fully aware of the storm and is there with You protecting, providing, and offering strength through His grace?
Dear One, God is good. Storms never take Him by surprise.
And when we can’t praise Him for our circumstances, we can always praise Him for who He is.
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Thank you so much for stopping by. I would love for you to share what’s on your heart in the comments below. Scroll a little farther down, and you’ll see where you can leave your comments. Together, we can find the nearness of God in our darkest moments.
Sweet blessings to you,
