April's Winter Weather

It's April 18th, and there's another Winter Weather Advisory for the western and central sections of North Dakota. Just last week, there was a system that dumped 5 inches of snow in Beulah, and nearly 10 inches about 30 miles south of us. Needless to say, there are many complaints throughout the state regarding this winter-like spring.

In situations like this, I can't help but think of Job 38-41. The LORD is speaking to Job, who's had his share of complaining and questioning to do. I encourage you to pull out your Bible and read these chapters in their entirety. They're humbling reminders of who we are and who God is. Here's a brief passage to wet your appetite for the Word of God:

"'Gird up your loins like a man, and I will ask you, and you will instruct Me! Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. Who set its measurements? Since you know. Or who stretched the line in it? On what were its bases sunk? Or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? Have you ever in your life commanded the morning, and caused the dawn to know its place, that it might take hold of the ends of the earth . . . Have you understood the expanse of the earth? Tell Me, if you know all this. From whose womb has come the ice? And the frost of heaven, who has given it birth? Do you know the ordinances of the heavens, or fix their rule over the earth?'" (Job 38:3-7, 12, 18, 29, 33)

That's just a small portion of the LORD putting us in our place. Although we may have a desire for warmer days, greener grass, and more sunshine - before you complain about the weather, remember who sent it. And as you reflect on Him and who He is as a holy, omnipotent God - remember who you are in comparison. The fact that such a God loves us each so passionately that He gave the life of His Son for us should drop us to our knees in awe and worship.

Take the words of Paul literally - because I think that's how he intended us to understand them - and "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4)