The Calm In The Storm

Last week our island took a direct hit from a Signal 3 Typhoon- Opong here in the Philippines. This is the equivalent to a Cat 3 hurricane. We were notified that the power would be cut for the island at some point when the winds picked up. We were prepared - or so we thought. We had been through a stronger storm in 2019 and had no idea what to expect or how to survive such an event back then. We learned a few things from that experience and how to do it better next time.

If you know our ministry you know we are building a campus that will serve as a pastor retreat and development center. We have "temporary bedroom/bathroom" in the corner of the garage until our cottage is built. Our main living space while we build our home. I feel safe here. We are comfortable with outdoor furniture as our living room and a dining table in the middle of the garage. We have survived the last several years this way while we are here in the Philippines..

With this storm, the eye passed to the south of us which caused the winds to shift to the east, the direction the photo was taken, from our garage door. The garage door has had its share of issues over the years and during the storm, one of the springs sprung and the door came off the track while we were trying to close it with the shifting winds. FEAR/PANIC/ANXIETY came over me in a flash and we managed to get the door down but the wind was so strong it was bowing in. We backed the truck up against the door as best we could and took shelter in the bedroom. The feeling of someone standing on my chest was overwhelming and I asked my husband to pray for me. Still feeling anxious I continue the prayer- LORD- CALM THE STORM - OUTSIDE AND INSIDE MY HEART. Moments later as the storm outside raged on God allowed me to fall into the sweetest, deepest sleep and I rested for 2 1/2 hours.

When life gets overwhelming continue to seek God. He is a GOOD GOOD Father with GOOD GOOD Gifts. Seek Him, Pray earnestly, EXPECT Him to provide for you.

Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

#prayer #Storm #Calm

• Deb Durnin