The beach is my happy place. When I’m there (which isn’t often enough), it’s peace and creation and I can so clearly see the workmanship of God. I think about those houses that are built steps away from the sand. And how those houses are built differently from my little house in Texas. “Beach houses” are designed to withstand the elements of its surroundings. There are special components built into those houses so that they can survive even the most violent storm. 

And we know the storms are coming. It’s not “if,” but “when.” And even though those houses are built to withstand, I can imagine that in the middle of the storm, it can get scary and messy. Windows rattling with the wind. Shutters banging against the house. Maybe things falling off of the shelves and onto the floor. 

Much like these houses, we are built-in Christ-to endure. We are equipped and steady and steadfast in Him…He made us to last didn’t He? Psalm 84:7 ESV says, “They go from strength to strength.” And John 1:16 ESV says, “And from his fullness we have received grace upon grace.” (italics mine) Strength to strength…grace upon grace. In my experience, it is strength and grace that have been the pillars that held me up when life felt scary and messy. My friends, whatever we need, ALL that we need is found in Christ and Christ alone. 

And when the storms come…because they will, James 1:2 ESV says, “Count it all joy, my brothers when you meet trials of various kinds.” (emphasis mine) Maybe, like me, you read this and think, “How can JOY possibly come from trial?” 1 Peter 4:12-13 MSG says, “Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.”

Scripture also talks about how the cross was “the joy set before Him.”  Jesus knew what was coming and it was joy?? But let us remember that he also knew what was coming after the cross. Jesus was the SON of God and He suffered more than you or I could ever imagine. So why do we think we are exempt? It’s “sharing in Jesus sufferings” but it’s also with “glory just around the corner.” 

When we find ourselves in the middle of the storm, and windows are rattling and shutters are banging and everything is a mess, it may not be a pretty picture. And we might feel scared and out of control. Let us hold onto Psalm 62:6 AMP, “He ONLY is my Rock and my Salvation; He is my Defense and Fortress, I shall not be moved.” (emphasis mine) 

I’ve been saying this to myself over and over…”I shall not be moved.” Because NO MATTER WHAT, we are safe and secure and still standing in Jesus.