These verses from Psalm 77:16-20 that David penned as he reflected on God’s provision and promise keeping for his people stirred my heart as I read them.
The waters saw you, God, the waters saw you and writhed; the very depths were convulsed. 17 The clouds poured down water, the heavens resounded with thunder; your arrows flashed back and forth. 18 Your thunder was heard in the whirlwind, your lightning lit up the world; the earth trembled and quaked. 19 Your path led through the sea, your way through the mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen. 20You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.
There have been many times in my life that the storm waters seem to rising faster than I can escape to higher ground. Fearing the sorrow, pain or disappoint will overtake me, I sometimes swim so fast I miss God’s face. Things move so quickly and my mind is so cluttered in times of crisis and He can seem like nothing more than a blur. “Where are you in all of this? How can this suffering made into a thing of beauty?” I cry out.
In those times, I try to remind myself that I am only human. Knowing and trusting that God will prevail, rise us from the ashes and make something spectacular out of the horrible is what gets me through. I’ve seen it happen. I’ve seen Him work in truly astonishing ways. When I have the moments that I cry out wondering why His “footprints are unseen” I stop. I look. I listen. I trust. . . . and no, it isn’t easy.
In the midst of wild storms and trials our God is always there, but don’t forget to stop and take note of your surroundings . . . . for somewhere among you He has sent someone to lead, love and guide you. Just as David reminds us God did for the Israelites through the leadership of Moses and Aaron. So, don’t forget to look around next time you are in a storm. Look around and you will no doubt discover a life-preserver floating nearby that you need only trust and grab on to. You may not see Him, but He is there and you will sense Him if you stop for a moment in stillness.
And when you aren’t in a storm? Please continue to look for Him, because there is always a storm brewing somewhere and you never know who God will place in your path that may need you to throw out a life-preserver to.
Although we may not see His footsteps clearly, He truly is in every detail.
I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High. Psalm 9:1-2
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