Summer Storms

“What time I am afraid I will have confidence, and put my trust and reliance on you.” Psalm 56:3 Amplified Bible.

My grandmother was deathly afraid of tornadoes. She cowered in the basement in near-panic mode whenever the skies darkened, worrying that an approaching storm might bring devastation and injury. Her first comment with every phone conversation was to ask if we had heard of any bad weather coming our way. Even on clear days, she often scanned the skies, worrying that an unexpected storm would come up out of nowhere.

Her fear was understandable. She lived before Doppler radar, satellite images, tornado warning systems, or accurate weather reporting. But while she had reason for concern, fear got the best of her. To my knowledge, she never experienced a tornado. Grandma’s life was more affected by her fear of tornadoes than an actual twister.

Fear is funny that way. It starts as a legitimate concern but then grows into a tyrannical master. How about you? Have you let fear gain an upper hand in your life? When something frightens you and causes stress and worry, consider the above verse. God promises that He will take care of you as you put your trust in Him—whatever the situation.

Today when the TV weatherman reports severe weather coming towards our county, I remember Grandma’s phobia and choose instead to put my confidence in God’s help and protection. A peace fills my heart and mind as I head toward the basement.