In God's Hands
On July 4th, I found myself without words! I was overwhelmed as one of the worst floods in over 70 years flooded through Central Texas, including our beloved city, and then another of almost the same force rolled through before the week was over. I didn't know what to think, or what to say, or what to do. I am still overwhelmed at the destruction and loss of life that these floods have caused. Just one life lost was too many! We are so thankful that the Lord spared us the loss of any life. The most precious thing that we possess is our never dying soul. Jesus himself said, 'For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?' Mark 8:36, 37.
Many are asking the question that is always asked at a time like this: WHY? That question cannot be answered except by God, because we know that it was an act of God, and for a purpose that we will not understand if He were to tell us. It is far beyond the comprehension of our finite minds. The Lord, speaking through the prophet Isaiah, said in Isaiah 55:8, 9 'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. 9. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.'
God doesn't think like we think, or act as we act!
In an attempt to comfort those in grief, some people say, 'sooner or later you'll get over it.' That sounds hopeful, but it's not true for everything. For instance, all the families who have lost loved ones during these floods, and especially those precious little girls, will never get over it! I have a book that was given to me by a Missionary who recently lost his wife to cancer, entitled, 'How to get through what you will never get over.' There are some things that will stay with you for the rest of your life, but you can get through it and go on with your life. As the scripture says, 'God's grace is sufficient,' and it will win out in the long run; but it won't be overnight. Many of the people who did not lose loved ones, but yet lost everything that they possessed, may never get over it. Especially their home, special things of sentimental value and family heirlooms cannot be replaced.
We are blessed to live in a country of compassion and love for our fellow man. Hundreds of people from other cities and states were here to help, even before the waters receded, and provided food, clothing, and maintenance crews, and money to help those affected by the floods.
All I can say is, God bless Texas, God bless the USA and God bless all the good Samaritans.