Courage through the Storm
by Tina Yeager
“When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved … But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed … for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me”
Since childhood, I have watched the news daily in the same way ancient sailors gazed at the skies and studied the waves. Current conditions tell me how to direct my prayers, ministry, and words to others. In this horrific storm-year of 2020, I now limit my news viewing to about twice a week. These days, the rays of light have all but vanished from our headings.
I grieve for those who face losses, depression, and homelessness. Disease. Violence. Fires. To compound these plagues, hurricanes like the ones faced by Paul’s captors hit our nation with deadly force.
These dangers pose genuine threats to life as well as to ministering with words. It seems only logical to lose hope and despair of any future and for the messages for which the Lord called me. But scripture urges me to take up an illogical brand of courage that can only be found in faith.
While I may glance at the newscasts, I don’t need to gaze at those dark skies to determine whether to persevere. To navigate this perilous journey of sharing messages. I must turn to the source of words.
As writers, we share Paul’s mission to convey God’s messages to the lost and storm threatened. We can steer according to his faith-compass to take up inexplicable bravery amid these chaotic circumstances. Without courageous belief in the words God shares through us, we have nothing with which to guide readers through the crisis. The encouragement we give matters more than we know. Those who sail these tumultuous waters of 2020 might not otherwise have hope of survival.
Lord, remind us to cling to your faith-compass instead of obsessing over ominous circumstances. Embolden us to share your messages of courage with those who need it most. Amen.
Award-winning author, speaker, licensed counselor, and life coach, Tina encourages audiences to fulfill their potential. She offers writing workshops through Serious Writer Academy, hosts the Flourish-Meant podcast, and is a mentor with Word Weavers International. Beautiful Warrior, her book on women’s esteem is available on Amazon. To connect with her, visit tinayeager.com.
Thank you Tina. How encouraging! It’s good to keep reminding each other that God is in control!