Where’s Waldo?

Waldo’s a fun little character.

We’re supposed to find him in a picture of a crowd or a chaotic scene.

Maybe he’s in a crowd at the State Fair.

Maybe he’s hiding in a bunch of dogs at the dog park.

It’s game to see who can spot him first.

He’s always got that kooky grin on his face. You can’t help but smile.

What if Waldo were hiding in your life? Where would he be? Amongst the toys as you play with the kids? Lost in the overwhelming pile of papers on your desk? Covered up by mountains of laundry?

Sometimes Waldo hides in our emotional turmoil. He can get lost in our tears and our fears. Not only does he hide there, but we bury God’s peace and joy there, too.

We stop looking for anything that might make us smile. We no longer search for the little day-by-day blessings God pours into our lives.

We let the storm drown out God’s promises. We’re blinded by the lightning strikes that stab our hearts so we miss the light of His love.

Only God’s Word can calm us. Snatches of it might come into your mind. A friend might say something that reminds you of your favorite scripture.

I keep a list written inside the front cover of my Bible. I don’t have to search through the pages to find the truth I need – I just open it and begin to read.

Here are a few of my favorites:

The storm cannot overwhelm Him:
“The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”  (1 John 4:4b)

He will fill you with peace:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

He’s all-powerful:
“The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.” (Isaiah 40:28)

He’s always near you:
“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer.” (1 Peter 3:12)

He’s your guard: 
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)

He’s your deliverer:
“He guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.” (Psalm 97:10b)

He’s your strength:
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” (Psalm 28:7)

How does God encourage you during the storm?
Do you have a favorite verse that calms you when life is tough?