Whenever I go on vacation, I try to check weather forecasts prior to leaving. Depending upon the site you choose, you can research temperature up to ten days or hour by hour. Usually, this helps me know what clothes to pack. Unfortunately, just because a network has the most sophisticated technology in the world doesn’t make their anchors weather experts. Anyone with a weather radar channel or doppler program open can see weather systems approaching. However, unless you understand what you seeing on a screen, the exact forecast will always be in doubt.
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? – Psalm 56:3-4
This past weekend I had planned a family ski trip in the Poconos, two hours north in Pennsylvania. The early projections called for heavy snow Saturday, causing me to alter my initial plans. To make matters worse, the state of Pennsylvania issued a state of emergency at noon Saturday. Two days of skiing at Camelback Mountain turned into one, but snow didn’t start falling until five in the afternoon. Right on the ice/snow line, estimations ranged from three to twelve inches. To a certain extent, my families plans were held hostage by an ever changing weather report.
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love, 1 John 4:18.
In times of doubt and indecision, individuals are forced to rely on common sense. When you aren’t able to decide which way to go or turn, the Bible introduces the concept of trusting God. You may take the information provided like a weather forecast, but God’s Spirit, Galatians 5:25, can direct you like it did for the apostle Paul during the first century. Perhaps, this explains why the translators of the King James Bible use the term Holy Ghost to describe the Holy Spirit. This invisible force serves as a counselor, a guiding hand during times of darkness. Whether or not forecasts are correct, trusting God can turn cloudy or foggy mornings into an ideal day on the slopes. Sometimes the weather is merely a state of mind. When trust is present, fear is replaced by a loving appreciation for God.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 