Have you faced storms in your life? I think that I could safely ask who of us has not! Now the question is, do we react like a turkey or an eagle?

A turkey and an eagle react differently to the threat of a storm. A turkey reacts by running under the barn, hoping the storm won't come near. On the other hand, an eagle leaves the security of its nest and spreads its wings to ride the air currents of the approaching storm, knowing they will carry it higher in the sky than it could soar on its own. Based on your reaction to the storms of life, which are you? A turkey or an eagle? – Anne Graham Lotz

Almost four years ago, when my husband, Bob, died of a sudden heart attack as the cruise ship on which we were sailing was entering the first port stop of San Juan, Puerto Rico, I had never faced a storm like it! Burying my head or hiding out from the experience were not options for me. Of course, there is the certain brain fog that descends on one who has just experienced such a trauma. But through it all, the texts, online messages, and important FaceTime sessions with family back in Canada certainly helped me to experience God's tangible love. Even strangers were answers to prayers offered on my behalf! They all helped me to spread my wings to ride the air currents higher than I could have possibly soared on my own.

I thank God for bringing me this far in my journey. Even though tears still flow sometimes, waves of grief have lessened, and they are not like a tsunami threatening to knock me down. I am stronger than before this experience, as I have reached out to God regularly in prayer. I find that I call out to Him whenever and wherever, because I know that He hears and He cares. I know that He's with me at all times and in all places! Thanks be to God for His steadfast love!

I urge you to join me in depending on Him throughout our life experiences, even when storms threaten.

A chorus, based on Isaiah 40:31, has such meaning to me!

They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.
They shall mount up with wings as eagles.
They shall run and not be weary.
They shall walk and not faint.
Teach me, Lord, teach me, Lord, to wait!
       – Arthur B. Whiting, 1903

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love, Your closeness, and Your strength that help us, especially when we face the storms of life. You are a great God and greatly to be praised! In Jesus' precious name, we pray. Amen!

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About the author:

MaryLou Tompkins <bmltompkins@icloud.com>
Lindsay, Ontario, Canada
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