Storms All Around Us by Laurie McTier
"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." Ephesians 6:12, 13
"April showers bring May flowers." I can remember hearing this quote even as a little child. During the months of April and May, we grow accustomed to seasonal thunderstorms and showers, and often we have to take precautions.
Recently, I remember looking at the national radar map and found that all across the United States, it seemed that every state on the map had rain forecasted. In the Southern states, we had forecasted thunderstorms and possible tornadoes for the next four days. As we began to see the storms and tornadoes moving into our area, we knew that we could not play the role of the spectator. Crisis times demand action, and our response became one of prevention and livelihood.
Just as we took steps to protect ourselves during the thunderstorms and tornado warnings, we must take cover against storms that rise against us spiritually. Recently, God gave me this acronym that I hope will challenge you as you endure the storms.
Spiritual Preparation. We must spend time daily in God's Word and in prayer. This will prepare us for any storm that comes into our path.
Take Cover. Put on your Gospel armor as described in Ephesians 6. We must take an active stance against the storm by claiming truth, righteousness, God's Word, faith, and salvation.
Openly heed to warnings. The Bible reminds us that we should run from even the appearance of evil. As we take heed to thunderstorm and tornado warnings which are coming into our paths, we must also heed God's Word. The Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf, and we must heed to His leadership in our lives.
Remain Calm. True peace comes directly and solely from God. In the midst of storms in our lives we can rest assured that God is aware of the storm and at work on our behalf. He is our Shield and Defender.
Mandate. Often during storms in life, we notify friends and family to alert them to dangerous weather that is coming into their path. Spiritually, we have the same responsibility. Christ has given us the Great Commission to share our faith and tell others about His love. We would not remain quiet if we knew our family were in physical danger. Is it not more important to warn them of the dangers of sin and separation from God?
Truly, we have an awesome responsibility to be prepared during the storms. God give us a sense of urgency that we may be prepared for the storms of life and the boldness that we need to share with our friends and family who are need of You.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray that as you endure storms in your life you will make spiritual preparations, take cover, openly heed warnings, remain calm, and accept His mandate.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Middle Tennessee Outreach this week. Pray for the team as they host GoKids Clubs in inner-city Nashville. Pray as we minister to boys and girls and share with them the love of Jesus Christ, that God will bring forth a Bountiful Harvest for the Kingdom.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for APRIL 24, 2014
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2005, 2014 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
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