Every Family Deserves Hope
I have lived in Alabama for nearly fifty years. Growing up in this state comes with certain expectations and things to anticipate. We are required to choose an allegiance when it comes to college football. Pollen season is always going to be severe and our four weather seasons often just blend together. Being from Alabama also means that we are accustomed to storms. Our state, our families, and many of our memories are tattered due to extreme storms experienced in our lifetime. From hurricanes to tornados, we seem to get the best and worst of stormy weather so much so that we are constantly mindful and prepared for the storms.
The same can be said of life. Regardless of your geographic location, you can and should expect storms in life. John 16:33 tells us that “in this world we will have troubles.” Our troubles often lead to stress and stress can lead to so much more. A local pastor explained it to me this way. When I am in the storm and stressed…
- My resistance to temptation is lower
- My emotions are all over the board
- My productivity suffers, and my life can even seem to lose its meaning.
- I feel distant in my relationship with God.
After recent storms in our state, I watched the rebuilding efforts of neighborhoods and communities as they came together to put things back into order. Again, the same is true for our lives as we rebuild and replenish from the storms of life.
Ways to Replenish Our Soul
- Quietness. Psalm 23 reminds us, “He makes me lie down in green pastures… He restores my soul.”
- Enjoyment when we stand on Proverbs 17:22 in that “a cheerful heart is good medicine.”
- With People. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us, “Let us not give up meeting together… but let us encourage one another.”
When the storms come- and they will come- remember the final part of John 16:33, “but take heart, for I have overcome the world.”
-Micah Andrews
When you donate to the Foundry,
you’re supporting a charity,
you’re saving a life,
you’re restoring a family.
Every Family Deserves Hope
