Picture this – you’re in a small boat on a calm sea when suddenly thunder clouds roll in, the wind begins to howl, your boat starts pitching violently, the rain buckets down. Water’s pouring in, the boat’s sinking lower in the water, you’re ready to be sick over the side, and in a fit of panic you realise that your life’s suddenly in peril. Can there be anything more frightening than that?

I hope and pray that never happens to either of us. And yet there are times in life – in every person’s life – when terrible storms strike. And the problem is that it’s completely beyond our control to stop them, to prevent the boat from pitching, to stop those terrible circumstances from swallowing us up.

Just a moment ago it seems, the sea was calm, the breeze was fair, the sun was warm. Now this?! And the worse it gets, the more you come to the realisation that you can’t figure your way through. You’re helpless. Now what?

Proverbs 3:5-8 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. (ESV)

The answer in that fearful place is twofold – instead of relying on your own strengths, trust God. Remember, He has a proven track record of stilling storms. And instead of being oh so smart, turn away from what you know is wrong, do what’s right, fear the Lord. Because, trust me, it’ll be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.

That’s His Word. Fresh … for you … today.