We lost power.
We lost water.
The house was cold.
The children did not understand.
We were uncertain about tomorrow.
My family and I are far from the only ones who experienced the unpleasant effects of the weather the week of February 14, 2021, especially in Texas. This has been, and for many still is, a trying time. The comforts with which we had grown so familiar were taken, and there was little anyone could do to restore them. Job comes to mind, although our trials seem petty compared to his suffering (cf. Job 1:13ff). His admirable response is recorded for our benefit: he fell to the ground and worshipped, and never did he blame God (Job 1:20-22).
In every moment, God is worth worshipping. If Job could worship God and give thanks during such a low moment, certainly we could do the same. So, we prayed and thanked God for providing for us. We had clothes to put on, food to eat, blankets to cover us at night (cf. 1 Tim. 6:8). Our brethren were in constant contact inviting us to their homes (cf. Gal. 6:10; 1 Pet. 4:9). God never stopped caring for us. We were less comfortable than usual, but many options existed to keep us from sickness and death.
We were leaving our house to stay with some brethren for the night when I heard a click notifying me that power had been returned. Electric heat flowed through the vents, and in a matter of hours, the inside temperature had risen thirty degrees. The following day brought the return of running water. We rejoiced and thanked God then, as well.
As life begins to return to normal, remember that physical riches are uncertain things, even when you grasp them in your hand (1 Tim. 6:17-19). While you have earthly riches, use them to make eternal friends through the gospel (Lk. 16:19). And finally, praise God at all times for His great blessings on us in Christ (Eph. 1:3)!
Comments