WHEN IT RAINS.........

I love rain!  Every drop on this parched desert called West Texas is welcomed.  As of this writing, it is Independence Day, July 4.  Odessa temperatures are in the 80's with clouds and occassional rain.  What an unusual and unexpected blessing.  When it rains, my heart rejoices.

In the midst of this beautiful day, I am reminded of the old saying, "when it rains, it pours."  This phrase usually describes times when things just seem to fall apart on multiple fronts. To me, it seems that for the past few weeks, it has been pouring!  Really pouring!

Sometimes I believe that I can ride out the storm.  At other times, I feel that I am drowning.  For this moment in time, I am coming up for air, with the knowledge that the next wave is just around the corner. Just taking a breather before the next round of waves.

No memorable literary contribution from me today.  No humorous quips. No words of wisdom or spiritual insight.  Just the lyrics of a very meaningful song by Casting Crowns.  May these words comfort you during your storms.

PRAISE YOU IN THIS STORM

(excerpts)

I was sure by now

God You would have reached down

and wiped our tears away

Stepped in and saved the day

But once again, I say "Amen",

and it's still raining.

As the thunder rolls

I barely hear Your whisper through the rain

"I'm with you"

And as your mercy falls

I raise my hands and praise the God who gives

and takes away.

And I'll praise You in this storm

And I will lift my hands

For You are who You are

No matter where I am

And every tear I've cried

You hold in your hand

You never left my side

And though my heart is torn

I will praise You in this storm.  

Be strong and courageous.  
Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, 

for the LORD your God goes with you;

he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31 : 6