God Is My Protector

             My husband and I just returned from a trip to South Dakota.  We dealt with weather that was both beautiful and treacherous.  As we traveled West we ran into a snow storm, with temperatures well below freezing, that put us on icy roads, white out conditions, and winds for many hours, followed the next day with temperatures down to -4 degrees.  Accidents littered both sides of the highway, and there was a time or two we thought we also were going to fall victim to the conditions.    Yet, while fatigue set in, God was with us as our protector.

            During our stay we had amazing weather enabling us to visit with our youngest son, daughter-in-law, and beautiful new grandson.  It was wonderful on all levels.  Along with family visits, and drives through breathtaking views and mountain terrain, we shared in a worship service where the presence of the Lord was truly tangible.  It was amazing.  We both felt uplifted and renewed, as we drew closer to our Savior.  

            Our return trip began uneventful with bright sunshine, clear skies and 35 degrees.  Intense fog entered the picture about a third of the way across South Dakota that continually worsened, while temperatures dropped well below freezing, causing the entire landscape, including all the trees and power lines to turn white in a thick glaze of ice.  Reprieve was welcomed as we rested for the night.  

           The next day we were met with a dreary, low, gray sky.   By the time we reached Pennsylvania we hit another snow storm that continued through West Virginia, and the mountains of western Maryland that left a three lane highway open to only one lane for drivers.  Winds blew and snow fell, while again, the temperatures dropped.  Prayers again went up for safety.  God answered prayers on all counts.  

 

            I realize it is winter and weather is certainly going to be a factor when traveling through northern states.  Yet, the fact that we dealt with weather in just the areas we were traveling, while on our way to our destination and then on the return trip, makes a person wonder what God was trying to teach us.  During our stay, once we arrived, as already mentioned, it was grand.  I do know God does nothing by chance.  He knows the beginning and the end of every situation we find ourselves.  It is when we are in perilous circumstances we quickly retreat for his protection and shielding.  This is when even the non-Christian will often find himself breathing a prayer in hopes of being heard by someone!   If only we would call on Him every day, even when things are wonderful!  If only we would remember to thank him, for those moments when life is all as it should be.

            I would suggest as you reflect over the last week or two, or maybe the last month or even the last year and see turmoil in your life, perhaps you will see, as I did, God's hand upon you even if you didn't realize it at the time.  He is always with us, no matter what the trial.  He longs for a relationship with each of us.  He wants to prove His way is perfect as He demonstrates His perfect love.   

"As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.  2 Samuel 22:31