Danger! Danger! Alerts on the Phones

When this article is published, the terrible hurricane named Helene will be gone. On September 27th, my phone began sounding alerts at 5:30 a.m. As I grabbed my phone, I listened to a calm, yet firm, voice telling listeners to find a safe place to wait until the tornado passed. My husband and I rubbed the sleep out of our eyes and went to the area designated for safety in dangerous weather. My mind kept thinking “Danger! Danger!” I was thankful for the alerts on the phones.

We turned on the television and adjusted the volume so the voices of newscasters could be heard from the closet. One alert would end and another would begin. Our area has experience with hurricane winds. Tornados are different. The fact that we were in the dark hours made seeing anything outside impossible. Our neighborhood has a few street lights and they were the only way to view outside activity. Of course, we were in the closet waiting until it was okay to leave our safe area.

This hurricane brought power outages, downed trees and power lines, devastating flooding throughout many states, and other problems. Some bridges closed due to high winds. The reports of danger continued for hours.

As the darkness turned into light, I was reminded of how God protects us during times of danger and turmoil. God doesn’t promise that we won’t have danger or that we won’t be hurt. He does promise that He will never leave us. I find comfort in knowing that God is covering us with His love and protection in every moment.

Yes, there are times when I am afraid. Whether it’s a tornado warning, a scary medical diagnosis, or some other cause of worry, I must remember to go to God and seek His comfort. God is our safe place.

When the storm had passed, I began sending emails and texts to let our family and friends know that we were safe. I know some folks had flooding and more serious situations. I pray for every person and animal. I pray for God’s protection and love to cover all His creations.

Have you ever hunkered down in a closet or safe place during a storm? How did you pass the time while waiting for the “all clear”? Did you pray? Did you listen for directions from newscasters and authorities? Perhaps you read a book or the Bible. Perhaps you sat quietly and listened to the wind.

Storms of life come and go. Prayer is needed when times are good or bad.
How can you thank God today for His protection and love?

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalms 46:1 NIV)

In His name,
Melissa Henderson