“If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands I will send you rain in its season and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit.” Leviticus 26:3-4 NIV
It is October 19, 2013 and I awakened around four this morning to the sound of a steady, soft rain as it fell upon the roof and bounced off the open windows of my bedroom. Rain holds many connotations, dependent on a multiplicity of variables. In the dark of night it may conjure up fleeting thoughts of times gone by; by light of day a feeling of depression may set in for lack of sunshine. In winter, the frigid air may feel even colder, yet in the spring rain brings a feeling of eagerness and renewal.
The Old and New Testament agree that God honors obedience and despises disobedience. The Old Testament speaks of being rewarded now however the New Testament teaches that by faith and righteous living one will eventually be rewarded. The truth remains we are simply to follow and obey His commands.
Rain can be rejuvenating, exhilarating and motivational especially after a prolonged shortage. Zechariah, whose name means Yahweh remembers was a prophet and priest and in the fall of the year 520 B.C., he wrote, “Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime; it is the Lord who makes the storm clouds. He gives showers of rain to men, and plants of the field to everyone.” Zechariah 10:1 NIV
This verse begs the question, “Is God to blame for storms?” One commentator writes, “God certainly makes the storm clouds – He has created all things, including the atmosphere with its weather patterns. If we accept the blessings of a needed downpour, we also have to face the fierceness unleashed by a storm.” We cannot understand all things, especially why God allows storms that cause death, suffering and destruction. I believe human sin has perpetuated frustration in this universe and I wonder if God has turned a deaf ear to the masses that deny, dishonor and disobey His will. When I ask myself “Why,” I must recognize, even in my pain, that God’s plan for me is perfect.
LORD, thank YOU for the rain and the benefits thereof. Thank YOU for the seasons and the renewal each passing one brings. Take my hand LORD and lead me in the ways that are pleasing to YOU. In JESUS name I pray, Amen.
Pat Throckmorton
October 19, 2013