Lessons from the Storm
Today, I did one of the most spontaneous things that I have done in a while. It was storming, and I could hear the raindrops as they bopped against my window panes. When, suddenly I got the urge to go outside and play in it. I know, I know sounds crazy. But, it was so exhilarating!!!
I am by no means suggesting that all of you go outside and frolic next time it rains, but I would at least like you to learn from my experience. The road to spiritual maturity is ongoing, and as you continue to travel it you will notice God speaking to you and through you in ways that you would never imagine.
As I felt the first few drops of rain hit me, I began to question myself and wonder what I had done. Then, I thought to myself Trust God. At that moment, I began to pray and spread my arms and spin around. I asked God to take control, speak to me, and help me to become a better me that continuously magnifies and showcases his love. Then, I not only asked for forgiveness for my shortcomings but to also help me to forgive those who have wronged me in the past. Those who know me well, know that I have an impeccable memory. This becomes problematic at times because I find myself holding grudges quite often. If you suffer from a similar problem, I encourage you to LET GO. I am reminded of a quote by Buddha that reads, “Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one getting burned.” Letting go is difficult, but I promise you it is sooooo worth it!!
Forgiveness does not mean that you must give someone more opportunities to hurt you. But, you must stop allowing that injury to affect how you treat those people. You are giving them power over you! That is not what you are called to do. You are stronger than that! And, if not then maybe just maybe this situation can serve as the metaphoric weights needed to make you stronger mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Lessons from the storm
1) Don’t Let the Wind Take You Out
The wind is symbolic of all of the pressures and influences around us that have the potential to push us, influence us, or even knock us out. It can be stress or desires. It can be missed opportunities or even past regrets. They affect everyone differently.
As I stood there glancing at the trees, I noticed something. Although they were all firmly rooted within the ground, some remained unmoved while others swayed as the wind hit the branches. Some only slightly and others rapidly. But, does that mean that the ones that did not move at all are better than the others? Are the trees that moved slightly any better than the ones that the wind seemed to be directing as if it were giving orders. NO!! What matters most is that they did not FALL! They withstood the storm and shed nothing more than mere leaves and branches. Same with us. Stand!
2) Be Prepared to Let Some Old Things Go
Too often we get so pre-occupied with the leaves and branches that we’ve shed that we fail to see the new ones that are budding and ready to thrive. Next time you are enduring a storm or a tough time. Ask the lord for a spirit of discernment to help you ascertain the things that you need to release. Sometimes you must shed old friends, habits, and ideas to get where the Lord is trying to take you.
If you are so focused on what you’ve lost or what has left you, then you hinder yourself from truly appreciating what is come. There’s a scripture that comes to mind that reads, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” (John 15:1-2)
3) Remember the Storm is Temporary
As I stood out in the rain, taking in the beauty of nature, I became frightened by the thundering booms and sparks of lightening. It was at this point that I deemed it necessary to go back inside. But, I continued to watch from our enclosed porch. I noticed as the rain began to slowly subside and the sky began to clear. The storm was over! Although the problems that we encounter in life won’t come and go as quickly. I can promise you one thing! They won’t last always! Stay Focused, Stay Positive, and Continue to Continue. Don’t let the storm consume you. Remember that just because it is something you are going through, it does not mean that you have to let it define you.
Keep Climbing,
Marriah
