As I watch the devastation of Hurricane Harvey and the heartbreak of those who have lost so much, my heart goes out to them. Through no fault of theirs the Houston and additional Texas areas are enduring trials I can’t imagine.
Expectedly the hurricane with its torrential rain turned north after striking Corpus Christi, hitting the beautiful area of Houston hardest with still-rising flood waters. Leaving their beloved home, memories and animals behind, residents called out for safety.
Floods demonstrate how water is the great equalizer. It didn’t matter if one owned a shack or a multi-million dollar estate; water devastated each one. It didn’t matter if someone was a field laborer or CEO, water took away their livelihood. When we come before God, keep in mind that it won’t matter if we are janitors or celebrities because no one can purchase Heaven with fame or money. Salvation by Faith is a free gift and will be the only fact that determines eternity.
I wonder how many of them thought of the Scripture in Matthew, Chapter 24. Jesus told his followers; as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it will be when Christ returns to rescue his Believers. For a hundred years Noah urged his friends to renew their lives through faith in God. But some, believing they had all the time in the world, mocked his warnings. Failing to heed God’s Saving Grace, they perished. Water became the great equalizer. Many today believe they have plenty of time to accept Christ. Until then, God is mocked and other idols replace our Lord.
Unexpected disaster can occur at any moment in our lives, even death. Some seem apathetic to death as well. “I’m young!” They say, “I have plenty of time, couldn’t happen to me!” But “Now is the time of Salvation!” (1 Corinthians 6:2)
Some will blame God for their circumstance; failing to understand that God originally created all things, “Good.” Remember it was man’s choice to mess everything up. Mankind became so evil that God sent a worldwide flood to reclaim and renew His original Creation. But in His Mercy and Love He didn’t destroy all but rescued eight faithful people and began again.
As residents evacuated, many had to leave their beloved pets behind, praying they would be saved eventually. When Christ comes to rescue his Believers, some loved ones will be left behind. Do everything you can to ensure they are saved!
Baptism by water immersion represents a rebirth and dedication to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. If one confesses sin and turns from their old ways, Baptism washes it all away. God will never forsake us and offers us a safe place of refuge. Find refuge with Him.
Accepting Christ makes one new through a newly-created attitude and mindset. Some experts say it will take years to rebuild Houston but accepting Christ and becoming a New Creation only takes a moment. God is giving you a way out of your despair, accept Him today!
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) NASB
You’re right that everyone, no matter the socio-economic level, is affected in the hard hit zones. My only concern is that the richest people afforded the right insurance and have the nest eggs to rebuild. The poorest often do not. I do hope that after the fact everyone is helped sufficiently.
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Yes and you are right. I am not a fan of insurance companies. Many of those who have insurance were told they however they didn’t need flood insurance where they resided. Insurance companies usually get you one way or another, claiming it was the hurricane, human decisions releasing dams or wind instead of water to get out of their contract. (Sorry if that sounds harsh but I’ve experienced that previously.)
That is when Christians step up and assist in any way they can. Because God’s Law is the firm foundation on which we stand and we are to love and help those in need. I pray I didn’t want to come across as condemning anyone who is suffering. I did want to encourage those who are affected, to prioritize and realize this earthly home is temporary and shouldn’t be our final home. Blessings back,
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It is wonderful how all types of regular folks have stepped up to assist people they don’t know. That shows the best in American society.
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So true, it brought tears to my eyes to see those wonderful caring people coming across the flood waters with their “Cajun Navy” rescuing residents and pets by the thousands. That’s the true, generous American way! ❤
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I have prodigals in my life that I pray for every day. I know that God can use their trials and life altering events to cause them to turn to Him and cry out to Him for help and salvation. Praying for Texas!
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Thank you Wendy. So true – it’s similar to my wanting people to be healthy more than it seems they do. I certainly can add your loved ones to my prayer list as well, ❤
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Praying for Texas Ellie. There is still so much goodness among people. We see this often in testing times. ❤
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Thank you so much DG. Texans are a generous, loving and hearty bunch of people – they dig in and survive. We lived in Texas for a short time and I can attest to this fact. These are the real Americans, not the whiney-entitled-complainers who are featured on TV.
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I’ve seen plenty of the devastation on TV and those are my sentiments exactly Ellie. And look at Mexico stepping up to the plate for their neighbor, despite the treatment they’re getting from government. It’s heartwarming to know there is so much goodness. ❤
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Indeed it is an equalizer, as is our Christ! He cares not from where we come…He loves and offers salvation to all who will receive! Thanks for sharing and prayers continue for Texas and now those possibly affected by “Irma”.
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Thank you Tammy, I’m so grateful you knew what I was trying to convey. Water can destroy or give life and as for me, I will choose God-giving LIFE every time. In that I will place my trust for etenity. Blessings back, ❤
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