Hope Bursts Through a Threatening Cloud of Darkness

A dark cloud approached on the horizon — a deep charcoal, threatening cloud signaling a storm with significant rain and fierce winds. The gray veil of the beginning drizzle began to settle over the mountain valley as the wind began its assault.

Where is Hope When Darkness is Threatening?

I sipped my coffee as I watched the sultry clouds deepen over the ridge.

To my right, down towards the old apple tree, a burst of sunlight made its way through the clouds and I could hear her song — a meadowlark rejoicing in the unexpected light. Her song trilled across the impending darkness — perhaps in spite of the threatening darkness, and comforted my restless spirit.

Do you suppose she knew the storm was coming?

Do you suppose her song was spontaneous praise to her Creator?

Or perhaps an exclamation for God’s grace in the moment because the burst of light had strengthened her with its warmth?

I sipped my coffee and pondered.

My husband’s dementia is growing worse. I know our tomorrows are going to be difficult as we travel uncharted waters. Sometimes I feel afraid. Overwhelmed. I definitely don’t like it. That’s for sure.

But I also know my God is with me.

And I will praise Him.

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Though sultry clouds are on the horizon, I will give Him praise for the moments of grace that strengthen and encourage me.

Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow

In Deuteronomy 33:25, the Lord promised Asher, “You will have enough strength for each day.” I believe He has promised me the same.

And you.

Strength for each day.

Hope for tomorrow.

New mercies every morning …

But I think praise is a key component to receiving these promises because praise ushers in God’s presence. It opens the windows of heaven so the blessings can rain down. Praise fills the darkness with His glorious light and unfurls our wings of eagles so we might rise above the storm.

And on those days when my lips seem sealed and praise remains stuffed down deep, I hope to remember the meadowlark and her song in the face of the storm.

Will you?

When threatening storm clouds billow and darkness surrounds, will you think of the meadowlark and offer praise to the One who loves you? The One who is fully aware of the storm and is there with You protecting, providing, and offering strength through His grace?

Dear One, God is good. Storms never take Him by surprise.

And when we can’t praise Him for our circumstances, we can always praise Him for who He is.

Selah

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