A few nights ago, I was awakened by a bright flash of light. Groggy from sleep, I lay still trying to determine what had disturbed my blissful slumber. A long roll of thunder confirmed my suspicions—a storm had rolled in. As the roar tailed off, I expected to hear the pitter-patter of feet on the hardwood floors, but none came, so I closed my eyes and did my best to get back to sleep. 

 Before long, another flash of light lit up the bedroom, and once again, a roll of thunder followed in its wake. This time, however, there was no hesitation. I heard Barnabas as he jumped down from his comfy place on the couch and made his way to our bedroom. Within seconds, his cold nose nudged my arm, and his big pleading eyes met mine as if to say, “Mommy, I’m scared. Can I sleep with you?”

I patted the space on the bed between Jason and me, and in no time, the area was filled with 95-pounds of dog. Barnabas snuggled into the space, breathed a sigh of relief, and promptly went back to sleep. Though the storm raged on through the night, Barnabas slept soundly because he knew he was safe with his masters.

As I watched/listened to my sweet pup go from anxious to completely settled, I couldn’t help but smile. I can relate. How sweet it is to run to my Master when I’m afraid. When the storms roll around me, and I don’t know what to do, it’s such a blessing to know I can find peace and safety in the arms of my Lord. Sometimes He actively comforts me, but other times, just resting in His presence is all it takes to ease my mind and calm my fears. And not once have I ever been turned away. Every time I’ve approached the Lord and said, “Daddy, I’m scared. Can I sit with you?,” He’s invited me into His presence. Every time! And I know He always will.

Are you afraid today? Do the storms have you running for cover? If so, seek refuge with the Father. He loves you and understands your fear. He longs to comfort you and give you peace in the midst of your storm. And He will never, ever turn you away (even if you do have a cold, wet nose!).

NOTE: I apologize for the lack of audio lately. Last week, I was sick and had little to no voice. This week, for some reason, my recording software is giving me fits and picking up a lot of background noise. Oddly enough, it’s noise that isn’t really in the background. I have no idea where it’s coming from. Lord willing, I’ll get it running smoothly before long and get back to recording the daily devotions. Gotta love technology!