"He spreads out the northern skies over empty space; he suspends the earth over nothing. He wraps up the waters in his clouds, yet the clouds do not burst under their weight. He covers the face of the full moon, spreading his clouds over it. He marks out the horizon on the face of the waters for a boundary between light and darkness. The pillars of the heavens quake, aghast at his rebuke. By his power he churned up the sea; by his wisdom he cut Rahab to pieces. By his breath the skies became fair; his hand pierced the gliding serpent. And these are but the outer fringe of his works; how faint the whisper we hear of him! Who then can understand the thunder of his power?" - Job 26:7-14
As I stood in the damp grass of an open field, the collision of particles created bursts of colorful lights that filled the dark sky. While fascinating, the scientific explanation of the northern lights pales in comparison to the incomprehensible power of our Creator. He filled the once 'empty space' with dancing shades of green, red, and white. With my eyes pointed heavenward, an awe-inspired reverence for our Almighty God washed over me as I whispered praise and thanks for the extraordinary feat of nature that he gifted to a small-town southern girl.
Have you ever marveled at the sheer beauty of a moment? Do you remember a time when you felt God's all-consuming presence and might? Maybe you've experienced something so powerful and miraculous that it left you with an unexplainable feeling of wonder and peace.
In challenging situations, I too easily forget the moments God exposed heaven to me. Instead of seeking guidance and wisdom, I take matters into my own hands and attempt to fix things. Instead of recalling God's faithfulness, I let my circumstances steal my joy and peace. Too quickly, I forget that the power of God can still the choppy waters that seek to drown me. Perhaps you can relate? Thankfully, the Bible lets us into the lives of people who struggle like us so we can see the power of God at work.
When Job's life was completely undone, he looked to creation and the daily rhythms the Almighty set in place. He found comfort in proclaiming God's sovereignty, majesty, and wisdom. For thirty-eight chapters, Job cries out to God and does not receive a response, yet Job rests in assurance that God still reigns and that he is still good. Although Job's life was out of control, he knew God was still in control. And that made all the difference in the face of adversity.
As we mature in our faith and walk with the Lord, we learn to surrender, allowing God to quiet the chaos and confusion that threatens to turn our lives upside down. We learn to invite the power of the Holy Spirit into our lives and circumstances and ask him to restore the peace in our minds and hearts. Like Job, we can seek comfort and refuge in knowing that the mighty God who holds the world in his hands loves and cares for his precious children. Believing that our Savior is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-for-us can make all the difference in our lives.
I encourage you to spend time outside this week and marvel at God's majestic works. Soak in the sun for a few minutes, and rest assured God knows what he is doing and only wants the best for you.
Psalm 77:11-12 is one of my favorites: "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds." When I intentionally recall his ways through journaling, reading the Word, and prayer, I remember that God has never failed me and never will.
Question for Reflection:
How can you better recall the Lord's mighty deeds and faithfulness in times of stress and suffering?
Originally published on Crossmap
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