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“Calmness can lay great errors to rest.” Ecclesiastes 10:4b (NIV)

Gotta love those brave souls that seem to shine in the midst of a crisis. With wisdom, integrity and determination they press through the most difficult situations. Despite a whirl of chaos and uncertainty, they do life well – they stand strong and lead us peacefully.

Who are these brave individuals? They’re the school teachers quieting their students while a gunman fires down the hall. They’re the rescue workers talking the defeated one off a ledge and back to safety. They’re the waitresses responding calmly while being criticized for all to see and hear. They’re the parents hovering over their children while tornado winds blow off her roof. They’re the co-workers organizing groups to descend the Twin Towers when the enemy attacked. Individuals who reacted fearlessly even though they were shaking in their shoes. Individuals who didn’t get lost in the moment and lose their cool. Individuals who focused on the big picture versus the “me” picture.

How do we handle the unexpected emergency? Does calmness define us or do our actions create even more drama? Do we breathe urgent prayers for wisdom and strength or do we respond in panic relying on self?

Scripture is filled with brave souls that met their moments of crisis clinging and holding tight to the Great I Am.  “The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Praise the name of Yahweh,” echoed from Job’s parched lips.    “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,” uttered from the unwed pregnant teenager, Mary.  “The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. To Him be the glory forever,” spoken by the persecuted Paul.

Shaking inside but standing firm. Responding appropriately vs. overreacting. Seeking God moment by moment, brave souls who knew that the One who created the universe still holds them in the palm of His hand.  We, sweet friends, are no different – we can shout His praise even in the depths of overwhelmedness and uncertainty.  Confident and brave.  Unwilling to cave.

“Father, life is unpredictable and can change in an instant. Help us to stay close to You and draw from Your power when uncertainty surrounds us.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life