Psalm 42:11 “Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.”

March in the Midwest often produces strong winds. The meteorologist on the evening news warns adults and children alike to respond appropriately when she forecasts high-speed weather patterns. We must quickly find a place of safety in which to ride out the storm.

But there are other types of tempests that can threaten us. These also require a refuge. Unforeseen difficult circumstances can blow out of nowhere. They often rattle our security and well being producing deep despair. Yet there is a shelter from these storms too. This shelter is a Person – the God of heaven. We can put our hope in Him.

When I was around 13, Hurricane David caused a huge tree to crash down on our garage crushing the building and landing on the roof of the house right over my brother’s bedroom. I can still see the leafy branches draped over the windows shading the sunlight from the room. Today high winds still trigger in me feelings of great fear and concern. Many times I lay awake listening to howling gusts battering the bricks of our old farmhouse, wondering if our home will survive the night.

But even when the weather conditions are perfect, I sometimes lose sleep over another type of storm. The past day’s events or tomorrow’s concerns whip around in my head at incredible speeds, creating despair over often-uncontrollable outcomes. These warning signs remind me to do the wise thing. Run to the refuge only God can give. He alone knows what tomorrow holds and has the power to protect and guide through each day. His presence allows me to close my eyes and rest.

So don’t despair if you find yourself facing disconcerting, powerful winds. Run to the nearest and safest shelter. Put your hope in God. He, alone, is the perfect refuge on a windy day.