Wind gusts whipped through leaf-clad tree branches. Snow pelted the sidewalks, leaving a slushy mess. For October 31st, the weather was displaying its own form of trick-or-treat. Unfortunately, it was no treat.
Despite miserable conditions, children—dressed as ghouls and goblins—trudged through the inclement weather, eager to claim their yearly treats of Snickers and cupcakes from next-door neighbors.
When I awoke the next morning, I noticed the once-leafy branches were now brown, bare limbs. Ice-crusted leaves lay scattered upon the ground; frosted remnants awaiting the first rays of sunlight to melt the snow. I shuddered. I was not ready for winter.
Around noon, I drove across town to visit my step-daughter and grandson. On the way, I passed a beautiful red burning bush. Its vibrancy immediately caught my attention, so I pulled to the side of the street and stopped.
What amazed me about this shrub was the fullness of its scarlet leaves. Unlike the trees and plants that had taken a beating from gale-like winds the night before, this little bush remained fully clothed in all her glory, gleaming in the morning sun. Her leaf-adorned branches stood aright and grand, displaying beauty and strength.
Looking at the magnificent little bush, I wondered if I was prepared to weather impending storms heading my direction. When wicked winds blow into my life, will I stand strong? Will I remain fully clothed in splendor and beauty, or will my leaves drop to the ground covered with icy frost? How will I face inclement weather ravished upon my soul?
When I start to question my strength, I turn to the book of Psalms. Here I’m told that God will help me through life’s storms because He is my strength. If I stand rooted in Him, I will remain strong and flourishing.
Then, instead of worrying about impending storms that threaten to diminish me, I look to God for strength. With His help, I stand unhindered by the daunting forces of destruction as they whip through my being. I cling to His hand and trust Him to lead me through the darkness. And when daylight breaks, I remain strong—standing radiant and beautiful for all to see.
If you are caught in the midst of life’s storms, reach for God. He will be your strength.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
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Words of wisdom all Christians need. Thank you for sharing your ""burning bush"" experience.