Counsel #3 — Help!

Picture: Counsel #3 — Help!CSI 85.1

The explosion of natural disasters^{[123]https://www.imf.org/en/Blogs/Articles/2017/11/16/climate-change-will-bring-more-frequent-natural-disasters-weigh-on-economic-growth} may have impacted you or someone you know, causing economic devastation. Natural disasters, from earthquakes and hurricanes to wildfires and floods, are more than just physical upheavals. They may leave deep scars on the emotional and mental well-being of those who experience them. The trauma of witnessing devastation, losing loved ones or possessions, and facing an uncertain future can trigger a cascade of mental health challenges. Though no one is ever really emotionally prepared for such an event, it helps to begin trusting God in the smaller challenges of life today so we can lean into His presence and find strength and comfort in times of catastrophe.CSI 85.2

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 NKJVCSI 85.3

“When Jesus was awakened to meet the storm, He was in perfect peace. There was no trace of fear in word or look, for no fear was in His heart…. It was in faith—faith in God’s love and care—that Jesus rested, and the power of that word which stilled the storm was the power of God. As Jesus rested by faith in the Father’s care, so we are to rest in the care of our Saviour.” Ellen White in The Desire of Ages, p. 336CSI 85.4

Reflect: How could you develop greater faith in God?CSI 85.5