Friday, July 19, 2013

When the HEAT is On!!!!!!



Headline News:  Eastern States Bake”

     “The high-pressure system over the Eastern States has brought soaring temperatures causing several days of sweltering heat, and the potential of fatalities and strain on utilities.”

     During this terrible heat wave the weather bureau has given several heat advisories, for example: “TEMPERATURES WILL CONTINUE TO BE HOT TODAY...IN THE 100 TO 104 DEGREE RANGE. WHILE THIS IS JUST A BIT COOLER THAN RECENT DAYS...THE PROLONGED HOT TEMPERATURES OVER THE LAST WEEK OR SO CAN HAVE A DEVASTATING EFFECT ON THE BODY....TAKE MORE CAUTION AS HOT TEMPERATURES CONTINUE.”

    
This is a precaution given to protect us in severe weather.  It is the wise person who seeks shelter or takes whatever measures necessary to protect their health. Whatever may be said for our physical body may also be applied for our spiritually welfare. The advisories given to us in the Bible are for our spiritual protection and they are a reflection of God’s concern and compassion. As we all know, there are times when the heat is on spiritually and it can have devastating affects on us in our spirit, body and mind.  In those times when life is like a flood or a flame what should we do?

Isaiah 43:2 (NLT)
  When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.

     Heat can be very oppressive and so can life! From the Isaiah 43:2 notice these phrases: Deep waters,” “Rivers of difficulty,” “the fire of oppression.” These phrases certainly relate to the realities of life when the heat is on. Also notice in the word: “through” mentioned three times and how it relates to the ability to endure the heat: “through the deep waters,” “through rivers of difficulty” and “through the fire of oppression.”

     How is it possible when we really feel overwhelmed, sinking into the depths or being consumed by the flame, that we can survive?  Where is our shelter or refuge when the heat is on spiritually? Of course the answer is in God’s promise: “I will be with you.”

Psalms 23:4 (CEV)  
   I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won't be afraid. You are with me

Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.

Matthew 28:20 (NLT) Jesus said: “… be sure of this: I am with you always,”

      When the heat is on and you find yourself oppressed or overwhelmed, if you will take refuge in Him, you will make it through! For all things are possible to those who trust Him as Savior and Lord.

 
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