Help during turbulent times
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Faith Fitness
Bro. Sam Kaufman
Anyone ever ridden in an airplane? Of course you have.
It’s no fun when a commercial jet is way up in the blue yonder and things begin to get wild.
Perhaps a pilot comes over the intercom with this announcement: “Ladies and gentlemen, we’re experiencing some turbulence. Please return to your seats and fasten your seat-belts.”
About that time, a little “ding” can be heard. It’s the “seat-belt” light turning on.
Seconds later, an elevation dip results in your stomach getting that funny dropping feeling.
But your mind isn’t laughing. It’s pondering various scenarios—none of which are good.
In early 2020—say January or February—the captain perhaps came over the world-wide intercom: “Buckle up, we’re about to experience turbulence,” he could’ve said.
A new normal has occurred since. It’s just been one thing after another—with the virus pandemic at the forefront.
You couldn’t get toilet paper in March of 2020. Now, with supply chain shortages (see the shipping containers still out at sea), we may experience toilet paper shortages (and other necessary items) again.
I recently saw more than one person with a buggy full of toilet paper heading to the checkout line at the Alexander City Walmart.
They were stocking up on Charmin, or whatever brand it was. Probably multiple brands. Sometimes while in a rush—or perhaps penny-pinching mode—I’ll grab a roll of the 60-cent Great Value toilet paper. No doubt, I hear about it when I get home.
But “turbulent” is a good word to describe the times.
It’s an adjective!
Want a definition?
Here it is: “Characterized by conflict, disorder, or confusion; not controlled or calm.”
Synonyms are tempestuous, stormy, unstable, unsettled, etc.
Antonyms are calm, tranquil, peaceful, etc.
“Stable” also comes to mind. From stable comes stability.
Here’s the definition for stability: “The state of being stable.”
God’s Word provides the “stability” we need during these turbulent, troublesome times. But we must receive God’s Word deep within to experience its benefits.
Stability is available!
Isaiah the prophet spoke of it in this manner: “And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure.” – Isaiah 33:6
The “wisdom and knowledge” that is the stability of thy times is not a man-concocted or technological in nature.
It is simply adherence to God’s unchanging Word.
We can follow the Bible through the current maze unscathed!
In the uncertain and always-changing areas the world is heading, the Word of God stands consistent and comforting. It never changes!
“For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.” – Psalms 119:89
All other ground is sinking sand.
Cry out to Jesus—the way Peter did when he began sinking after he got his eyes off Jesus and on the storm’s turbulence.
Jesus will quickly extend a helping hand.
He’ll navigate us through this mess.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble; Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be removes, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most high. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.” –Psalms 46:5
Jesus is always ready to help—if we’ll seek Him. After all their efforts in the storm, the disciples finally awakened Jesus on the boat. “Peace be still,” He said.
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” – Hebrews 13
Sam Kaufman pastors The Church of God at 405 13th Ave. N. in Alex City. Contact him at 432-266-0154.
