Friday, February 1, 2019

Cold Blessing


“He sends out His command to the earth;
His word runs very swiftly;
He gives snow like wool;
He scatters the frost like ashes;
He casts out His hail like morsels;
Who can stand before His cold?”
     Psalm 147:15-17 (NKJV)

Here in the Midwest and other parts of the country, we have been greatly impacted this week by the dangerously cold weather. Yet the Apostle Paul exhorts us to  “rejoice in the Lord always.” (Phil. 4:4 NKJV)  Can we rejoice even in a polar vortex?  Yes indeed! 

Sovereignty:  As the Psalmist points out, the snow and cold and frost come from God, so we can have assurance that even in these weather conditions, God is sovereign, He is in control—and that is a blessing!

Salvation:  With some extra free time on my hand this week, I listened to some of the music from decades ago that I used to enjoy.  That flash from the past brought some good memories, but it also reminded me that back then, I was lost in the world and my sin, and I didn’t even realize it.  It brought such gratitude to my heart once again that God saved me and I praised Him for his amazing grace!  And in checking on one of the musical groups, I discovered that the lead singer is now a professing Christian—another blessing!

Provision: Yes, I’ve experience a bit of cabin-fever being inside all week. And yes, it was disappointing to have Wednesday evening church cancelled. But this enforced confinement has made me realize how much I depend on God and how gracious He is to provide so well.  I have a warm apartment, sufficient food so I didn’t need to venture out, and the much-appreciated ability to work from home.  Most of all, I’ve enjoyed His peace and presence with me.  Every good gift is from God (James 1:17) and I’ve been blessed with so much from His gracious hand!

Goodness:  In the midst of this extreme cold, the blare from the political divisiveness and cultural divide seems to have diminished just a bit for the time being.  It’s been so encouraging to read about communities and organizations coming together to help those needing shelter and other necessities, noting the bravery of first responders, bus drivers and others who needed to be out in the elements, and knowing that families have gotten some extra time to spend together.  These good things have brought a smile to my heart. 

So as this week and the polar vortex comes to an end, I rejoice in the Lord for He is good, all the time! If we know we're in the will of God for our lives, if we know Jesus and have His presence with us, we can be content in whatever circumstances we find ourselves.  I pray that is an encouragement to you today.

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