Holding Pattern - Karen Huffaker

The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16 NIV

Daily, it seemed as if we were in a holding pattern.

With all the happy excitement of high school graduation season ahead, the weather didn’t appear so bright and sunny. The final weeks were a flurry of last-time activities: senior walks, revisiting primary schools, enjoying fond childhood memories and early teachers, field day, senior picnic, senior parade, graduation practices, ceremony at the racetrack, and pool and garden parties galore. Unfortunately, forecasts of rain, showers, or thunderstorms loomed.

Many prayers were made, flowing through prayer circles and prayer chains almost daily. We would make it through one event with only moments to spare, thankful that the weather cooperated, only to repeat the process the next day. I prayed, as many others did, that the Lord would hold back the rain.

The Old Testament prophet Elijah came to my mind. He announced that dew and rain would not fall until he said so. Oh Lord, please let it be that way, I thought selfishly. We were dependent on God to withhold the rain.

On graduation night, weather apps forecasted rain again, and heavy clouds surrounded the racetrack. We held our breath with ponchos and umbrellas on standby, but the Lord held back the rain—sending only wind.

Two days later, thundershowers threatened our lakeside graduation party. Again, we prayed. Just as the celebration began, the sun appeared. The party was a wonderful event for family and friends. Later that night, the skies opened and delivered rain while we slept.

God often shields us from storms, hardship, harm, evil, temptation, negative influences, disease, and disaster. Our prayers for help are effective, and the Lord hears them. We must not give up hope. He also protects us from many things we may never know about. He is a loving God who is merciful and compassionate. He cares about us and what is important to us. Like any good father, He watches over us and bestows blessings.

If we keep our hearts right with God and believe in Him, great things happen.

Prayer: Father, thank you that you care for me so deeply.

Tweetable: Are you in a holding pattern because you haven't prayed?

Karen Huffaker is a freelance Christian writer. She has taught children’s Sunday school and single mom’s Bible studies and written poetry. She is from the Deep South and loves reading Christian books, devotionals, genealogy adventures, fishing, and all things family. She is also passionate about her grandchildren’s sporting events. 

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