God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Psalm 46:1-3
Hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. They are part of the reality of living in the Philippines. The Philippines is in the typhoon belt. More than 20 typhoons pass through the country every year. The Philippines is also included in the “Ring of Fire” in the Pacific Ocean basin, where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. More than 23 active volcanoes are found in our country.
Typhoons, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions are natural disasters, and they cause great damage. We witnessed this in Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 and the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991. Many warnings have been published about the impending earthquake dubbed “The Big One.” It is said that the whole of Manila will be submerged, thousands will die.
The government can do all the preparations for natural disasters. There may be several earthquake drills being done in many barangays across the country. But when a super typhoon hits again or when “The Big One” continues, our own safety is ultimately not in the hands of the government, the church, the family, or anyone else. Only God can save us.
Take note that Psalm 46 does not say that God will provide shelter or send help in times of disaster. Instead, God himself is the refuge. God himself is the helper.
If you truly believe in God, if you surrender your whole life to Him, He will prove to you that He is your strength and refuge. He will show you that He is your help in any problem, trouble, or disaster. So you shouldn’t be afraid even if the world falls apart. Even your own death you should not fear. No matter what happens to you, God promises eternal life with Him. In His presence, there is no fear.
LET’S PRAY:
Lord, You are my strength. You are my refuge. You are my help. I will not be afraid of earthquakes or storms. I entrust myself and my family to You. Amen.
APPLICATION:
Do you have a loved one who is experiencing a storm or an earthquake in life? Pray for him now. Then, share Psalms 46:1-3 with him.
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