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Early Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
Preparing Spiritually for the Pending Hurricane: Trusting God in Times of Anxiety
- Philippians 4:6-7 – “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
- Psalm 91:1-2 – “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.”
- Isaiah 26:3 – “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
In Mark 4:37-39, we see a powerful moment when Jesus and His disciples faced a dangerous storm.
The disciples were filled with fear, but Jesus, calm and confident, was asleep in the midst of the storm.
When they woke Him in panic, Jesus rebuked the storm saying, “Peace, be still.”
Immediately, the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
Jesus then asked them, “Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith?”
This illustration shows us that even when storms rage around us, Jesus is our peace and calm in the midst of the chaos.
His presence commands calmness, and trusting in Him allows us to refuse worry and anxiety.
With Hurricane Helene hours away, it’s natural to feel anxious and concerned for our safety.
However, as followers of Christ, we are called to trust Him in every storm—both physical and spiritual.
God’s Word invites us to refuse anxiety, choosing instead to rest in His promises of protection and peace.
Here’s how we can spiritually prepare:
- Pray with Faith – Philippians 4:6 tells us to bring our fears and requests to God with thanksgiving. Take time to thank Him for His protection and pray for the safety of your family, neighbors, and community.
- Meditate on God’s Promises – Psalm 91 assures us that God is our refuge and fortress. Read and reflect on verses that remind you of God’s faithfulness and His power to protect.
- Refuse Worry and Anxiety – Isaiah 26:3 teaches us that God will keep us in perfect peace when our minds are focused on Him. Choose to refuse worry by fixing your mind on Christ, knowing that He is in control of every situation.
- Minister to Others – Look for ways to help those around you who may be anxious. Offer to pray with your neighbors, share scriptures of peace, and be a calm presence. Your trust in God can be a testimony of faith to those who are struggling with fear.
Consider a lighthouse in the midst of a storm.
No matter how fierce the winds or high the waves, the lighthouse stands firm, offering safety and guidance to those caught in the storm.
As believers, we are called to be like that lighthouse—anchored in Christ, shining His peace, and offering hope to those in turmoil.
While the storm rages, we can remain steadfast because our trust is in the One who controls the wind and the waves.
PRAYER Heavenly Father, as Hurricane Helene approaches, we come to You in faith, trusting in Your protection and peace. Calm our anxious hearts and remind us of Your promises. We ask for safety for ourselves, our families, and our community. Help us to refuse worry and to rest in the knowledge that You are in control. Grant us peace that surpasses understanding, and help us to minister to those who are anxious with calmness and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
ASSIGNMENT
- Create a list of scriptures that focus on peace and God’s protection (like Psalm 91, Philippians 4:6-7, and Isaiah 26:3). Keep these verses close and meditate on them throughout the day.
- Pray with family and friends for protection, calmness, and God’s guidance in the hours ahead. Encourage others to trust in God’s promises, and offer to pray with anyone who is anxious.
- Reach out to your neighbors or church community. Offer to help prepare for the storm, whether by helping to secure their homes or simply offering a comforting word or prayer.
- Refuse anxiousness by consciously turning over your fears to God in prayer. Every time you feel anxious, immediately remind yourself of God’s faithfulness and speak out His promises. Refuse to allow fear to control your thoughts—let trust in God be your anchor.
FRIDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
James Parker
Kim McClain
June Davis
Danny Jarrard
Amy Garner’s Mom
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Daniel Cooper’s Mother
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother in law
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Marynell Ford
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sandra Graham’s Family
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher