Before the Storm

Pilot Knob Lutheran Before the Storm 4/17/2024

We are entering the time of year known as tornado season. Tornadoes bring much damage, fear, and disrupt the normal routine of a heathy life. Even if a tornado doesn’t visit your town, severe storms can have similar results.

Radio and TV ads encourage us to prepare for disasters, natural or otherwise. We know storms are a part of life and we can’t avoid them, we can only anticipate them and prepare the best we can. It is very difficult to provide what is needed during and after a damaging storm or natural disaster. It is better to prepare before. We are told to have water on hand or water filtration, extra food, cash on hand and a generator if possible.

The same is true for emotional, relational, and spiritual storms, many of which come unexpectedly. How can we prepare for those? By drawing near to God now through worship, being in his presence through daily prayer and especially learning his word and storing it in our minds.Psalm 119:11 I have hidden Your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against You. Matthew 4:4 Jesus He answered and said, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes out of the mouth of God.’”

When Jesus battled Satan in the wilderness it was God’s Word that enabled him to survive and be victorious. Repeatedly we see Jesus referring to the Word when facing the storms in his life. We must store His Word in our mind ahead of the storm so the Holy Spirit has a defensive weapon (sword) to use in our battle. We must also be determined ahead of time that no matter what problems or persecutions we may face we will be faithful to our LORD even unto death.

By reading, worshiping, praying, and learning God’s word, our faith and confidence in God’s provision and faithfulness grows and takes deeper toot in our hearts. Colossians 2:6-7 Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.

~ BE PREPARED ~

Pr. Bob Snitzer

By the Way:

Today: 3:45 Confirmation class.

Sunday 21, 9:00 AM Morning worship service. Sermon: Love God or Love the World

10:15 Sunday school for all.

2:00 GriefShare #12. Please tell others. For more information go to: https://www.griefshare.org/findagroupor contact Pr. Bob or Sue Reese.

~ Past communiques and sermons can be read and heard on our website: www.pilotknob.org and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PilotKnobLutheran/

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