Keep a low profile

The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart. — Psalm 34:18

The National Weather Service advises that if you’re ever caught out in the open during a severe lightning storm, you should kneel down, bend forward, and put your hands on your knees. Then, if lightning strikes nearby, your body will be less likely to serve as a conductor. Maximum safety depends on keeping a low physical profile.

The same applies to Christians caught in life’s storms — we must assume a low spiritual posture. This means we must humble ourselves before the Lord (Ps. 34:18), because pride and rebellion can harden us. We must speak truthfully (v. 13), depart from evil, do good, and seek peace (v. 14). Our heavenly Father wants us to stay close to Him when our hearts are hurting so He can impart His renewing strength and healing love.

Yes, we’ll get drenched in the driving rains of adversity, and sometimes its fierce winds will buffet us so severely that we’ll almost be swept off our feet. With each blinding flash of lightning we may be strongly tempted to get up and run. But keeping a low spiritual profile of humility and fear of God is the surest and safest way to weather the storm. David assured us that those who trust God in life’s storms will not be condemned (v. 22). — Dennis De Haan

He that is down needs fear no fall,
He that is low, no pride;
He that is humble ever shall
Have God to be his guide. — Bunyan

READ: Psalm 34:11-22

God doesn’t shield us from life’s storms; He shelters us in life’s storms.

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Samuel 6-8
• Luke 15:1-10