A Heatwave Is Coming

If you have lived around Huntsville very long, you know how this time of year works. One day may be mild and comfortable, and then suddenly the forecast changes. Temperatures climb into the upper 90s, humidity rises, and stepping outside feels like opening the door to an oven. Local weather reports begin warning people to stay hydrated and seek relief from the heat.

A heatwave is coming...

We respect heat because we understand what it can do. Too much exposure can drain your energy and even become dangerous. During extreme temperatures, people naturally look for relief. They seek shade, air conditioning, a cool drink, or a place to rest. Life can feel that way too.

Sometimes challenges come one at a time, but there are seasons when problems seem to arrive all at once. Financial stress increases. Family concerns grow heavier. Relationships become strained. Unexpected hardships appear. Stress begins piling on top of stress until emotionally and spiritually we feel worn down. There are moments when life can feel like standing in the middle of a heatwave with no relief in sight.

The encouraging news is that God never intended for us to carry life’s burdens alone. David wrote in Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Notice that God is not described as distant help or occasional help. He is a "present" help. He is with us in the middle of the pressure. Jesus also offered this invitation in Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Jesus did not say, “Come after you have everything figured out” or "come when you are strong enough." He simply said, "Come."

One of the dangers during a physical heatwave is dehydration. Often it happens gradually. The same can happen spiritually. We become busy and distracted, and eventually worn down. Prayer becomes less frequent, and time in God’s Word becomes less consistent. Before long, we find ourselves spiritually exhausted. Jesus said in John 4:14, “Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst.” The world offers temporary relief, but Christ provides lasting refreshment for the soul.

A heatwave may be coming to North Alabama soon, and difficult seasons will come into our lives as well. But when life’s temperatures begin rising, remember where true relief is found. The Lord is still our refuge, still our shade, and still our rest.

- Michael Rosenblum

#MaysvilleMessenger