After securing our cabin and gathering some important things, Kristin and I took what felt like possibly one last look at it. A large wildfire was bearing down on the area. But we were both at peace knowing we had done what we could, and we trusted God to take care of the rest and the community.
However, my trust was put to the test when the fire exploded two days later and strong winds whipped it ferociously toward the cabin. The fire was out of control, and despite the tremendous efforts of firefighters, it kept relentlessly advancing.
Even though we live three hours away, I had some idea of what was happening. Our neighbors kept us updated with texts, videos and pictures (we can see flames!). I checked the wind direction (blowing out of the north is bad!). I kept tabs on several wildfire apps and websites (large groups of fire hotspots right on the edge of the subdivision!). I checked the cameras on our cabin that gave a limited view of our property (deer casually grazing is good; deer fleeing in a panic is bad!). It was mentally exhausting.
However, in my thirst for information, were my actions aligned with my supposed trust in the Lord? If they truly were, I’d be checking all my data sources less often, right? I waffled between being still and knowing God is in control (Psalm 46:10), and feeling like I was not trusting in the Lord with all my heart since I was trying to depend on my own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).
Worry and fear are natural initial reactions to situations. The question is whether we stay rooted and stranded in that worry and fear, allowing them to dominate and control our long-term thoughts and actions, instead of focusing on God’s promise of peace when we have faith in Him.
Thankfully, Paul provides a way to keep our fears in check: “Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand” (Philippians 4:6-7, NLT).
Another way to tap into God’s peace: share the burden. We also had many people praying, which was tremendously comforting. And the winds shifted (blowing out of the south is good!) and unexpected monsoon rains arrived (from red flag warning to flash flood watch!), and the community was spared.
What part of your faith are you struggling with?
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