When it rains, it pours

Such an interesting phrase, when you think about it. It's negative, right? That's why it popped into my head tonight anyway. My family's life is like a whirlwind right now and it seems like the devil is using every opportunity during this rainy season to grab ahold of me, causing a flood of uncontrolled emotions.

I've seen the rain just this week demonstrate this phrase literally. It didn't just rain last night, it poured. And as a result there were streets & basements flooding. Very negative.

I don't think God meant rain for despair though. Obviously, it's nourishment for our world. I think He meant trials for good. It's through them that we grow too.

During this storm, I want to become more like Christ.

"In your anger do not sin..." Eph 4:26a
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Eph 4:29-32
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again; Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Phil 4:4-9
"I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Phil 4:13

Sometimes the showers aren't that bad after all.

Showers of Blessing
There shall be showers of blessing:
This is the promise of love;
There shall be seasons refreshing;
Sent from the Savior above.

Refrain:
Showers of blessing,
Showers of blessing we need:
Mercy-drops round us are falling,
But for the showers we plead.

There shall be showers of blessing,
Precious reviving again;
Over the hills and the valleys,
Sounds of abundance of rain.

There shall be showers of blessing;
Send them upon us, O Lord;
Grant to us now a refreshing,
Come, and now honor Thy Word.

There shall be showers of blessing:
Oh, that today they might fall,
Now as to God we're confessing,
Now as on Jesus we call!

There shall be showers of blessing,
If we but trust and obey;
There shall be seasons refreshing,
If we let God have His way.

Daniel W. Whittle