Take Shelter

Take Shelter

Outrunning the Storm, Seriously?

It is not recommended to try to outrun a tornado, as tornadoes can move quickly and change direction suddenly. Additionally, tornadoes are often accompanied by other hazardous weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning, which can make driving or traveling more dangerous.

People often try to outrun trouble when they're faced with difficult or uncomfortable situations. Here are a few examples:

1. Denial: Finally, some people try to outrun trouble by denying that there's a problem at all. They may convince themselves that everything is fine and ignore any warning signs or red flags. This can be dangerous because it prevents people from taking action to solve their problems before they become worse.

2. Procrastination: One common way people try to outrun trouble is by procrastinating. If someone is faced with a difficult task or decision, they may put it off in the hopes that the problem will go away or become easier to solve.

3. Running away: In extreme cases, people may try to outrun their problems by physically running away. Or by avoiding having difficult but needed conversations. Running away could mean leaving a relationship or a job without addressing the underlying issues. Some people try to outrun their problems by binging on Netflix or turning to drugs or alcohol. They may use their devices or substances as a way to escape their problems temporarily, but ultimately, this can lead to even more trouble.

The best way to stay safe during a tornado is to seek shelter in a sturdy building or underground shelter as soon as possible. Pay attention to storm warnings and take them seriously, and have a plan in place for how to respond in the event of a tornado.

THE STORM WILL ROB YOU OF YOUR SLEEP

There are various examples of storms that can catch us while we sleep, depending on the location and the type of storm.

But while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away.

Matthew 13:25

While we are sleeping, our enemy comes to deploy his devices for our destruction.

Stay sober and awake, my friends.

Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep.

For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

Romans 13:11-14

The Best Sleep Aid

I take several supplements to aid my sleep.

I listen to relaxing music.

I do deep breathing exercises.

But the best Sleep aid is the Peace of God.

I will both lie down and sleep in peace;

for you alone, O LORD, make me lie down in safety. Psalm 4:8

TAKE SHELTER IN DIVINE FORTIFICATIONS

The Bible speaks often of taking shelter in God as a source of protection and strength.

In Psalm 91:1-2, we read, "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

Proverbs 18:10

says, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

There are numerous names signifying the safe place of God:

Shelter, Refuge, Fortress, Strong Tower, Secret Place, Shield, Bulwark, etc.

Why does the Bible use military fortifications to describe God?

The Bible uses military fortifications to describe God because they were a common and understandable metaphor in ancient Near Eastern culture. In those times, fortresses and strongholds were symbols of security and protection, especially in times of war or conflict.

This imagery conveys the idea that God is a strong and impenetrable fortress that offers safety and security to those who seek refuge in Him.

Furthermore, the use of military fortifications to describe God also highlights His power and sovereignty.

The hymn "A Mighty Fortress is our God" was written by Martin Luther and is based on Psalm 46, which speaks of finding shelter in God.

Luther was himself familiar with military fortifications, having grown up during a time of political and religious conflict in Europe. He also served as a soldier for a time before becoming a monk and later a leader of the Protestant Reformation.

Here are some key verses from the hymn:

"A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;

Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.

For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;

His craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate,

On earth is not his equal."

These opening lines of the hymn describe God as a mighty fortress that provides protection from the trials and challenges of life. The hymn acknowledges the presence of an enemy who seeks to harm us, but affirms that God's power is greater.

Fort St. Catherine is an example of a mighty fortress protecting against pirates and other threats to the island.

Standing on John Smith’s Bay looking east, you will see two examples of bulwarks—behind the homes of Roland Darrell and his neighbor. These were built in the aftermath of Fabian.

"Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,

Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's own choosing.

Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;

Lord Sabaoth, His name, from age to age the same,

And He must win the battle."

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"And though this world, with devils filled, Should threaten to undo us,

We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us.

The Prince of Darkness grim, We tremble not for him;

His rage we can endure, For lo! his doom is sure,

One little word shall fell him."

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The line "One little word shall fell him" is found in the third verse of the hymn "A Mighty Fortress is our God," written by Martin Luther.

The full verse reads:

In this context, the line "One little word shall fell him" refers to the power of God's Word to defeat the Prince of Darkness (Satan). The hymn expresses confidence that, no matter what trials or temptations we may face, we need not fear because God's truth will ultimately triumph through us. Satan, the "Prince of Darkness grim," may rage against us, but we can endure his attacks knowing that his ultimate defeat is certain. The "little word" mentioned in the hymn is a reference to the Word of God, which is powerful and effective in defeating the enemy.

In Hebrews 4:12, we read that "the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." So when the hymn says that "one little word shall fell him," it is a statement of faith in the power of God's Word to defeat Satan and all his works. It is a reminder that, no matter what challenges we may face, we can trust in God's Word and find strength and protection in His love.

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We are not alone in the battle against sin and temptation. Jesus Christ is our Savior and our defender, and He is with us always. By placing our trust in Him, we can find safety and shelter in His love.

‌LIKE IT NEVER HAPPENED

That same night of these terrifying threats to my existence, the home owners called State Farmer…It was around 2:00 am in the morning.

An agent answered and activated a claim…

The next morning, three persons wearing ServePro uniforms were on site.

ServePro is listed as number 2 among the Top Restoration Services of 2023

The motto of Servpro, "Like it never happened," emphasizes their commitment to restoring damaged properties to their pre-loss condition. It conveys a sense of reassurance to customers that their property will be returned to its original state, erasing the effects of the disaster as much as possible.

But there is a greater and far superior restoration service. And it doesn’t cost anything but a call.

I talking about the Restoration Service of Salvation.

Similar to Servepro, the protection of God can be seen as a way of restoring our lives to their intended state. When we turn to God for refuge and strength, we can find healing and restoration for the damage caused by sin, pain, and suffering in our lives. Through His grace and mercy, God can help us to overcome the effects of our past mistakes, and empower us to live a life of purpose and fulfillment.

The Bible tells us in Isaiah 43:25

"I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake,

and remembers your sins no more."

This verse speaks of God's power to wipe away our sins and mistakes, as if they had never happened.

I’m reminded of Jesus’ words to the thief on the cross…

God's restoration can be seen as a way of making things "like it never happened," by erasing the effects of our past mistakes and restoring us to wholeness.

I like what 2 Corinthians 5:17 says in the New Living Translation

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person.

The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

Ultimately, the protection of God is a reminder that, no matter what challenges we may face, we can trust in His love and care to guide us through.

Just as Servpro's motto conveys a sense of reassurance to their customers, God's protection can give us the reassurance that we need to face life's difficulties with confidence and hope. When we trust in God's protection, we can be assured that He will work all things together for our good, and that nothing can separate us from His love.