By Bill Brandstatter
Last weekend (May 2024) was a devastating one weather wise for our area. Several tornados were reported. One meteorologist indicated the National Weather Service had issued 97 tornado warnings recently. That number is significant; but there are some things that were seen from these tornados that should benefit us.
It is easier and quicker to destroy than to build up. It was obvious that a lot of destruction came in a short amount of time. The emphasis for many now will be to build after the debris is cleared. The Bible uses a variety of words to mean “build up.” Two of the most common are “edify” and “exhort.” Paul wrote that we should “edify one another.” (1 Th. 5:11) This applies in all areas of life. We should seek to edify our spouses and our children. We should constantly look at ways to build up each other, not tear down. In all things regarding buildings or life, it is easier to destroy rather than build; but we need to build each other up because eventually trouble will come.
A proper foundation is important. We have seen pictures on the news of foundations still intact, but the buildings are gone. The foundation will still stand long after the structure is blown away. When it comes to our spiritual lives, the foundation is also important. (1 Cor. 3:11) The church was built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets (Eph. 2:20). It will stand forever (Dan. 2:44).
Cooperation is a must with everyone working toward a common goal. People help others to be safe. Political differences have been set aside and cooperation is evident. Cooperation helps to sustain us in weakness. (Ex. 17:12) Cooperation helps to provide courage for a conflict. (1 Sam. 14:7) The Bible says “Two are better than one” (Eccl. 4:9).
Life should matter more to us than anything else. Even after homes were destroyed, what matters most to the people is the lives that were saved. One man in Arkansas saved around 50 people by hollering for everyone to take cover in a bathroom in a truck stop. Destruction was all around and the truck stop destroyed, but because of what he said people were saved. Life matters to all of us. Jesus came to improve our lives (John 10:10). To Him, life matters. He wept when Lazarus died (John 11:35). He came to save people from their sins (Mt. 21; Luke 19:10. He promised life beyond the grave to those who believe in Him (John 11:25, 26).
Prayer is important. There is a time and a place for prayer. Most people recognize this during an emergency. People were praying for others because they knew God is powerful. They acknowledged the power of God. In the midst of storms, God is still in control. When the disciples were in the boat with Jesus, a great storm arose and the waves beat on the boat and the boat was filling up with water. Jesus was sleeping in the stern of the boat. He arose and rebuked the wind and said, “Peace be still!” (Mark 4:35-39) Jesus didn’t stop the storm from coming; rather He showed His power during the storm. During our recent storm, God was where He has always been. He is in heaven willing and ready to help when needed. Luke records that men always ought to pray and not lose heart (Luke 18:1). Paul indicated we should pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17). Let us continue to pray and seek the help of God. He is a very present help in time of trouble (Psa. 46:1).
Let us thank God for all He does for us and realize we are just passing through this life. Life is short (James 4:14). God should be at the center or our lives (Prov. 3:5,6; Eccl. 12:13,14). Let us obey Him and live faithfully and we will receive a crown of life (Rev. 2:10).
- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/
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