The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knows those who take refuge in him.
–Nahum 1:7
January 17, 1994, was a day of trouble for thousands.
The largest earthquake ever to hit an urban area of North America rocked southern California at 4:30 in the morning. It threw residents out of bed all over the San Fernando Valley, crumbled overpasses, caused hospitals to evacuate, downed parking structures, apartment buildings and started fires, yet -- remarkably -- caused only 57 deaths.
The quake was felt from Northridge to San Diego and east as far as Las Vegas, Nevada.
Tony recalls being jolted out of bed, confused and blinded by the dark. He scrambled for a window to climb toward safety. There he stood with strangers, shaking together in the cold.
They grabbed for one another’s hands to pray. “God, stop the chaos.”
God responded with an aftershock. He had a plan: His own plan.
In the pandemonium, Tony had to relent and just trust.
We’ve all had our day of trouble -- fires, flooding, hurricane winds, crumbling marriages, devastating disease. God has His plan, though we often don’t piece it together at first.
Sometimes there is no way to stop the aftershocks, but that isn’t our responsibility. We just have to take hold of one another’s hands, seek God together, and take refuge in Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Lord, Help me to remember that salvation comes from You. The troubles of this world will last only for a season. You are eternal. Please strengthen my faith as I take refuge in You. In Jesus’ dear name I pray, Amen.
Reflection
Where is the first place I turn when there is trouble? What do I expect from God when I turn to Him?