and He saved them from...

It seems this has been a tough start to the year for quite a few ladies. My heart has broken as I have listened to stories of hurt and confusion and mistrust – probably because I know firsthand all those emotions! It is times like these I am almost afraid to open my mouth because I don't want to spout "Christian-ese" or clichés. I've been there - when you desperately want to hear some words that will give you comfort and hope and all you hear is "blah, blah-blah, blah-blah". You want to scream!

The past couple of weeks have driven me to the book of the Bible most known for comfort - the Psalms. Psalm 107 talks about some of the history of Israel and tells 4 stories about people in some pretty rough situations. Some of them were brought on by their sin, but a couple just had to do with life.

In each account it says “Then they cried to the Lord in their distress.” In the most horrific, low moment of their life, they knew Who was listening and Who alone could do something about the situation. Here’s what hit me – it’s about how God answered these desperate cries for help:

~ He delivered them from their distress (vs. 6) – then He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle…He satisfied the thirsty and filled the hungry with good things.

~ He saved them from their distress (vs. 13) – then He brought them out of darkness and the deepest gloom and broke away their chains.

~ He saved them from their distress (vs. 19) – then He sent His word and healed them.

~ He brought them out of their distress (vs. 28) – then He stilled the storm to a whisper and hushed the seas and guided them to a desired haven.

God not only delivered from… saved… and brought out from the distress, but generously did more. He provided a place of security and provision ~ He gave hope and light to dispel the darkness ~ His Word was a source of comfort and healing ~ He calmed the whirling storm and guided them to safety. All things He still does today!

“From Calvary’s cross wave upon wave of grace reaches me...”

From “Privileges” ~ Valley of Vision