Day #90 in A Year of Thanks:
I’m thankful for the Voice that speaks peace over me.

Today was a stormy kind of day, typical of spring during this time of year. There was a potential risk of severe weather, including tornadoes, though thankfully, that threat passed without incident. This storm reminded me of several things that I couldn’t help but reflect on, however.

First, I’ve experienced some significant storms throughout my life, most of which have only been metaphorical category fives. Although I must say, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 literally brought three trees down on my former childhood home. If we sat at a table together, and I listed every single turbulent time I’ve been through up to this point, you’d think I was making it up for fictional entertainment. Some of it, you already know by reading my past posts on other parts of this site. The other parts I haven’t shared online are stuff I don’t think I’d ever share with anyone outside my circle, because it’s just too sad. Those who are in my inner circle have often told me that there’s no way they could have endured everything I’ve been through, and even they don’t know my entire life’s story. When I reflect on everything, I can’t help but see God’s hand at work in my life. I know that without a doubt, I also couldn’t have endured everything without His hand on my past, present, and future.

Second, this storm reminded me of the story in the Bible of Jesus on the boat with His disciples. You can find it in the Gospels of Matthew (Matthew 8:23-27), Mark (Mark 4:35-41), and Luke (Luke 8:22-25). The story can be summed up as a massive storm overwhelming the disciples in their boat on the water as Jesus sleeps. They are absolutely terrified by the waves and the roars of the storm, and after Jesus wakes up in response to their cries for help, He rebukes the storm, and it dissipates before their eyes. Then, He turns to them and questions them about their faith.

Third, I am reminded of the song “Peace Be Still” by Hope Darst. This is an incredibly beautiful and powerful song, and when I combine all these reflections, I find myself smiling and feeling a deep sense of relief within my spirit. The song is like the icing on the cake for me tonight. The peace be still part of the song gets me every single time, because of Psalm 46:10, where it says, “Be still and know that I am God.” It’s my favorite quote in the entire Bible.

The Lord has had His hand all over my life since before I was born, and He has seen me through every storm. He sees me, and He has lit up the darkest corners of my spirit and life. He’s continually hard at work, teaching me more each day, walking before me as He leads the way for the best that He has in store for me, according to His plans. Through every single storm, He speaks peace over me. He has never failed me, and He never will, so let His will be done.

I will trust the Voice that speaks peace over me.

Day 89 | Day 90 | Day 91
Year of Thanks