Summer rainstorms are so wonderful. Everything outside is cool and clean, and each blade of grass, every flower, and leaf seem to be a bit greener, and more alive.
But as awe-inspiring as storms are to those of us indoors, does it ever simply amaze you that God uses something as violent as a storm to rejuvenate, grow, and refresh His creation?
Sometimes when the rain is falling in plentiful sheets, it seems like it may never stop. And once in a while the downpours are so violent that trees are knocked over, and flooding occurs. But have you ever noticed that shortly after a raging storm, a beautiful band of colors appears in the clouds, and new growth begins to spring forth where old vegetation once was?
I think that the Lord uses the storms that form in our lives in a similar way. Maybe He allowed a storm to flood your life with more of Himself, or maybe He orchestrated it so that the weeds in your life that He wanted to replace with flowers were uprooted and washed away.
During the intervals of the raging storm when the thunder and lightning are crashing only ten feet from you, I've learned that that is when He is closest. When the torrents of rain pour down and you feel like giving up, He's right there, holding you. He gently whispers "Trust me. I am with you. Do not be afraid, for I love you, and you are Mine."
And after the storm? You are more beautiful in Him. And, if you look closely, you may just see a ribbon of different colors gracing the clouds-a reminder that God is faithful, and will get you through any storm that may be placed in your path.
