Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous . . . Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. (Josh. 1:6–7, 9)

The words of the bravest prayer I ever prayed are found in this song, Bring the Rain: “Bring me anything that brings You glory.” They are also some of the most faith filled. What is the rain in your life right now? Jesus makes the rain so much more doable just by His promise of His presence.

He’s so with you in your rain. Even when, no, especially when the storms feel like they are going to overtake you, His strong arms are wrapped around you buffeting your head from the pelting torrents of life. It has been during the storms  that I have known His carrying Grace the most clearly. I pray your storms bring you Jesus.

My dear friend starts chemotherapy this week. She picked out a wig today. Each step is a journey itself. Jesus is so obviously  there for her in the rain as she clings to Him.

Father God, the rain can blind us with its stings or it can find us turning to You. May the rain in our lives make us stronger and bind us closely to you. Help us to glorify you in the circumstances You place before us. Hear our cries and have mercy on us, particularly on our fears that rise up within us. Remember our frame and strengthen it in You. As wounded individuals and as a flailing country, we desperately need You to show Yourself mighty among Your people. Give us courage and hope. As we present ourselves as an offering, may we glorify You. In the precious Name of Jesus, Amen.