The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. - Psalms 18:2
This past summer, my husband and I put our canoe in the river of a deep gorge in Utah. We spent the afternoon paddling in desert air through waters flanked by steep rock walls. We listened to the rhythmic sound of our paddles plunging into the water, then rising again over and over, keeping time with our strokes. We were alone in the serene gorge and the intense beauty of it.
Suddenly a dark cloud appeared overhead and tiny raindrops sprinkled a warning of more to come. We paddled quickly toward the surrounding cliff and noticed a ledge overhang. We positioned ourselves under it—canoe and all—just before the rain let loose, pummeling the river with water pellets. From the protection of our rock, we watched the splashing spectacle and took joy in having avoided being caught up in the storm.
What ended up being one of our favorite canoeing experiences together reminded me how God offers us protection in all of life’s storms—big and small. He gives us shelter and peace when the world around us is in a flurry of chaos. He is our rock of safety and provision. We only need to turn towards him.
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
If things are running smoothly for you right now, take a moment and thank God for your clear skies and calm weather. He wants you to enjoy these days of peace to their fullest as a gift from Him. If, however, you are facing difficulties and challenges, whether big or small, God is there for you with protection and provision. Talk to Him about your concerns and let Him guide you with His wisdom and shelter you through the storm.