In the Gulf Coast of Florida furious storms form in a hurry! The deep thunder rolls in the distance, winds pick up in a hurry, waves crash on shore, the lightning show becomes visible, and you look for cover. When this happens there’s an intense desire in me to capture some intense pics but better judgment often prevails and I stay safe indoors until it all passes by.
About an hour and a half from where this picture was taken a seriously bad storm formed in the city of Orlando, Florida, at Pulse Nightclub. And the light show was not the electrical kind but one coming from the weapons of an assassin.
Terror ensued as people ran for safety but it was not to be for all, 49 died (not counting the gunman) and 53 were wounded. The worse massacre in America history.
All of a sudden and out of nowhere the worst storm of life unleashed on many as family members received the dreaded news that their loved ones were dead. My eyes filled with tears; my heart totally broke for those facing the storm. Then it dawned on me that people I know and love could have been there that night and part of the body count.
I thank the Lord that those I love are safe today but wonder how anyone can overcome the pain that comes from the whirlwind of events from that night at Pulse Nightclub.
I learned a long time ago that when appropriate human words are missing the perfect Word of God can make all the difference in the world to someone facing a furious life-storm.
God’s thoughts in the Bible supernaturally fill the void in our souls that have been left there by heartache and loss. (Tweet that)
Maybe your storm that has nothing to do with someone’s sudden death but you are still hurting and wondering what’s next for you.
My dad’s favorite Bible is one I encourage you to internalize, digest, and make a part of your daily life. Write it down on a sticky and place it somewhere visible to you throughout your day:
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NLT)
I may not understand why bad things happen to good people but I understand that there’s a promise here, a promise of God’s loving presence and power when we need Him most. He will lift us when we are fallen and breathe courage in us when the wind’s been taken off our sails and the rug’s been pulled from under our feet.
Gandhi once said:
“When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it–always.” (Quotes about Victory; http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/victory)
History has also taught us that Jesus Christ is the embodiment of Truth and Love. (John 14:6)
In your storm turn to Him in faith. Know that the Lord is so close to you that if you could you see Him, His shadow would be on you.
God wants to wipe your tears, let Him. Talk to Him. Hang on to Him with every bit of emotional strength you have left.
Orlando our prayers are with you!
May Your thoughts and encouraging words bring peace to all families and friends who are hurting at this time…I pray for transformation and healing of the minds of these sick individuals who hurt innocent human beings…
Me too.