Daily
Devotional

Soon after moving into our sprawling ranch-style house set on a wooded acreage, we began to experience frequent thunderstorms. Hot summer days often ended in celestial fireworks of jagged lightning, and the booming percussion overhead definitely got our attention! At times, the disturbed neighing of a neighbor’s horse also reached our ears. We knew the animal would be wishing for shelter.

Just as God’s four-footed creatures seek protection from threatening elements, we also look for a refuge when surrounded by adversity. We are all destined to experience trials in life, and like a hungry lion on the prowl, Satan, our enemy, watches for those opportunities to pounce on us. He knows our weak points, and he does not care what tactics he employs, as long as he has a chance to discourage or distract us from our goal.

A severe or prolonged illness can leave us disheartened. Emotional and mental struggles often leave us feeling battle-worn. Or what about that unpleasant co-worker who seems to have left “cooperation” out of his vocabulary? The list goes on, but at the end of that list (and at any point along the line, if we are looking), we can still find our Heavenly Father waiting for us with open arms! He is our protection against the storms that assault us and the lurking enemy who would take advantage of our vulnerability. Needing someone stronger than ourselves, we gladly throw ourselves into the everlasting arms of our God and Friend.

There is a reason God allows us to experience these storms. After going through turbulent times, we become more sensitive to the struggles of others we may meet. We gain a deeper understanding and have sympathy to share. If we have found God’s sustaining power and comfort, we can point others to our unfailing Refuge. He is the best shelter on this planet!