By: Matt Rodriguez

God, save me from my storm

Flashing lightning, turbulent waters, and wind lashed against my skin. Salty drops pierced my weary eyes—mixing with tears wrought by bad choices. Like a dinghy caught in a tempest, the storms I created tossed me around until my life was spiraling downward.

Anchorless, my sin pushed me farther along the channel to destruction. I had navigation tools to get me back on track but I didn’t want them. Instead, I decided to cope with my pain by giving into temptation.

A dark deluge encircled me like a killer whale hunting his prey in the open ocean. I was in trouble. Fiery darts shot across the night—thunderous bolts scared me. My selfish heart felt empty inside while the salty sea crashed against my pride.

I knew my life was drifting out of control and I needed to do something quick. I had ignored God’s warning—I had ignored Him. I knew He was the rescue boat I needed most. In fact, He has always been in the business of rescuing others from sin.

The Psalmist Asaph knew God used storms to grab the attention of those sinning. God allowed sinners to spiral out of control so they could repent and seek Him. So when Asaph’s enemies sought to kill him, he prayed to God:

“…so pursue them with your tempest and terrify them with your storm. Cover their faces with shame, LORD, so that they will seek your name.” (Psalm 83:15–16)

So there I was in the tempest myself. I felt shameful over my sin. I was ready to turn to God for help.

“God, save me from my storm.”

And He did. And He can save you too if you ask.