Disaster That Strikes

In the summer of 2005, my family moved from the farmlands of Mississippi to the swamps of New Orleans to start a new life in the city. To dedicate our new home to the Lord, my parents buried a Bible in a glass case under the house’s foundation.

Having grown up near New Orleans, my parents were familiar with hurricanes. In August 2005, news of Hurricane Katrina interrupted our family dinner. The weatherman warned that this would be a Category 5 storm and urged everyone to evacuate the area. Despite his warnings, few understood the severity of what was coming and made no efforts to leave, our family included. Days before Katrina made landfall, my mom abruptly woke up to the voice of the Lord saying, “Leave. Now.”

Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday. (Psalm 91:5-6 NLT)

After staying away for a few weeks, we had no idea what to expect upon our return. We didn’t know if our house would still be standing, if our friends were safe, or if those who stayed behind had survived. All we had seen on the news was pure devastation.

When we finally returned, most roads were cleared, but the landscape was unrecognizable. As we turned the corner to our street, we braced for the worst. To our shock, our home looked almost untouched compared to the devastation around it. Though further inspection revealed severe water damage and other issues, the house itself stood firm against the raging storm. We slowly rebuilt our home and lives, supported by incredible ministries like Operation Blessing, which provided us with meals and hope daily.

As I grew older, I discovered that the Bible my parents had buried was opened to Psalm 91—the psalm of protection. This chapter has since become foundational in my life and home. Witnessing God’s miraculous protection over our family and home when we placed it in His hands has been one of the greatest miracles I’ve ever experienced.

Today, we face continuous threats from disasters, wars, diseases, and other evils. It’s easy to succumb to fear, as many do, but I encourage you to cling to God’s promises over your life. Build your life on the unwavering foundation of the Word of God. When fears arise and storms rage, you will not be shaken.

If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home. For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go. (Psalm 91:9-11) 

Make Psalm 91 a foundational Scripture in your life and store its words deep in your heart. The Lord promises protection when we place our safety and refuge in Him. Rest in that promise today.

~

Scripture is quoted from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.