The World is Watchingby Dale Harcombe | More from this Blogger 24 Jan 2008 09:15 PM Our dog is afraid of thunderstorms. This is not the puppy, who is totally unfazed by storms. This is our big cross Kelpie and Border Collie. The other week he tried to tunnel under the fence and became so agitated by the storm that last time it thundered we took pity on him and let him inside. We figured that the little pup was unfazed because she was inside with us and knew she was safe. So we thought it would calm our big dog down too if he was allowed in with us. The plan certainly didn't work out as we'd expected. Instead of settling down in front of the TV like our pup, he agitatedly prowled up and down and jumped up and fidgeted as the storm continued. All the pats and the soothing words did nothing. He prowled around like a lion on steroids. All that happened was we ended up unsettled as well by his stressful behavior and frustrated by our inability to settle him. Sometimes as Christians, the way we react to situations and problems can have a similar effect on others. The world, which means our non Christian friends family and neighbors are watching when we encounter problems to see how we handle them and if we react with fear and trembling and a lack of faith. It's a bit like the way the disciples reacted when they encountered a storm. Even though Jesus was in the boat and the situation with them they allowed fear to govern their actions. Terror took over and the disciples, several of whom were experienced fishermen, were convinced they would drown, Luke 8:24. Jesus chastised them. 'Where is your faith? He asked his disciples', verse 25. As you go through that current crisis or situation would Jesus say the same to you? 'Where is your faith?' Or are you showing by your words and behavior that you are trusting in the Lord to bring you through whatever difficulty or major problem you are experiencing. The way you react could present a powerful witness and have a great effect on those around you. It could cause them to want to know the secret of your joy and peace despite the situation. Or it could convince them that being a Christian is no use if it means you don't react any differently to the non-believer. Remember the world is watching to see how you will handle it. Will it be a case of, 'Where is your faith?' or will the way you handle the crisis prove the reality of your faith and the power of our Lord? Bible verses from the New American Standard Version Please visit these related blogs How God answered one man's prayer How to handle the storm in your life Learn more about Dale Harcombe  Dale has a passion for books and writing. She writes in various forms, from articles to poetry to fiction for children and adults. Relevantchristian tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Discuss this article
|
Christian categories |
