Drowning!

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

To say we've had a lot of rain in Georgia this summer is definitely an understatement.  We've been inundated.  Soaked. Flooded.  Swamped.  Lest any of you think I'm complaining at this point, I'm not.  After three scorching and bone-dry summers of drought, the rain is a welcome relief to our region.

During one of our downpours, I look out on our deck and discover that one of our potted impatiens isn't draining properly.  In fact, it's drowning!  The water is literally lapping at the lip of the pot.

As soon as the rain lets up, I go outside, pour the excess water off the beleaguered plant, and set it under the eaves where it won't get any direct rainfall.  This seems to do the trick as new buds are forming on it, promising beautiful lavender blooms within the week.

Have you had times in your life when troubles rained down so hard and fast, you felt like the poor impatiens, standing up to your neck in the murky waters?  Full of fear, or worry, or anxiety?  Thinking that, at any moment now, you will drown?

Been there.  Done that.

And, it happens when we cling to our tribulations instead of running to God at the first onset of rain.  Asking Him to drain us of all our fears.  To put us in a safe and sheltered place where we can recover.  Where we can rest in Him.

Jesus says, "Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  I don't think He meant this as a suggestion.  This is a direct instruction.  Because, as believers, we know that nothing, nothing can separate us from the love of God.  Though the world may shower troubles and worries and woes upon us, we will never endure them alone.

God is there.  He is with us.  He wants to shoulder our burdens, to rescue us from the muddy waters.

The Lord gives us the courage to continue on, living in His light.  In His promise.

In His love . . .

~

Are you drowning in a sea of troubles?  Will you turn to God for help?

Please join me in prayer:

When troubles rain down on us, Father, may we always turn to You to calm our fears and soothe our hearts.  Let us ever know Your peace which passes all understanding.  Amen.