Summer Storms

 

During the hot, sultry summer days in the Carolinas, thunderstorms often release an intense downpour of rain to frighten us. Flashes of lightening turn murky gray skies to brilliant white. Children and small pets cower during such storms, but not my Dad. 

 At the first sign of a storm, he would announce, “I’m taking a nap, wake me if you need anything.” He lay peacefully asleep all through the sounds of a noisy rain pelting the bedroom window.

As a child, I thought maybe everyone’s daddy slept through summer storms. As an adult, I was not as forgiving. “Dad should keep vigil along with the other adults", I said to myself. It was in later years I learned the possible reason for Dad’s quiet and relaxed attitude. 

His favorite Bible story was from Matthew 8:23-26, NIV. It is the story of the disciples’ panic as their master and teacher lay sound asleep in the hull of their boat. There was a dangerous storm approaching that would drown them all!

Although Dad took reasonable precautions to protect our home against summer storms, he trusted God to provide protection during the everyday turbulence of life. He remembered Jesus’ words, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid” (Matthew 8:26, NIV). Dad was the one family member who remained controlled and steady during everyday crises in the life of our family.

That was five decades ago. When facing life’s challenges, I still remember Dad setting an example of trust and faith, just like Jesus. Our Lord slept through the storm, but He also calmed it.

Learning to trust during the storms, also requires faith. As we live through the hard times, give proof of your faith by trusting God to provide for what you need and guidance for the days ahead. 

Carol Adamec Brown July, 2026 


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