The Fire and the Flood

Isaiah 43:2

In August 1955, over a period of just a few days, twelve inches of rain was dumped on Putnam, Connecticut. The Quinebaug River, which runs nearby was contained at the time by old earth and stone dams. The rain was too much for the dams; one by one they burst, and tons of water came crashing through the town at speeds of twenty-five miles per hour. Bridges and roads were destroyed, along with one fourth of the town’s businesses and homes.

As the magnesium came into contact with water, it ignited. The fire department and the rest of the town watched helplessly as barrels exploded, shooting fire 200 feet into the air.  The flaming bombs landed on buildings throughout the community and fire spread throughout the town.  It was truly a disaster. The cost of the damage ran into the tens of millions, taking years to rebuild. In spite of the devastation done to this tiny New England town, not one single person died during the storm. Putnam, Connecticut was consumed with fire and flood, yet everyone was saved. 

Some people interpret the fire and flood as evidence that God has deserted them. Don’t believe it. The fires and the floods of life are evidence only that you are human, that we live in a fallen world.  Jesus said, “The rain falls on the just and the unjust.” (Matthew 5:45) 

Remember: God is not the source of your problems, he’s the solution. He doesn’t create the misery in your life, he helps you through it. And during the storm we have his promise…  Do not be afraid, for I am with you. (Isaiah 43:5) Every season of life brings new opportunities, new challenges, and the occasional storm. Remember, when you face the fire and the flood, that God is with you.