What we all can learn from Hurricane Matthew
I live in Jacksonville, Florida; As do many of my friends. Social media is flooded with posts about Hurricane Matthew! It seems to be what everyone is talking about; and rightfully so. I wanted to get in on the action and share my thoughts about the storm.From reading countless social media posts regarding this storm, I have noticed 3 main themes in which people are sharing from. Fear, denial and faith. I wanted to take a quick moment to share my feelings on each of these. Although this post will be short, I am including links to related content if you would like to read more on the topic. (Highly encouraged)
Fear
Fear seems to be the main thing that I am seeing on social media right now. A lot of people are really freaking out about this storm! There is nothing wrong with being concerned. However, when fear sets in and takes over, people panic, anxiety sets in. This is very dangerous and unhealthy place for the human body. Panic and anxiety is why people rush to get water, gas and other 'essential' items. Most people acting out of a place of fear and are not making smart decisions.If you fit in this category, take a deep breathe, turn off the news and settle down! Being concerned is fine, take action, but do not make your decisions based on fear. If you are a Christian, remember this bible verse: "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." - 2 Timothy 1:7
Related Post: Fear is created through what you imagine; it is not reality until you bring it to life.
Denial
Many people that are from Florida don't look at this storm as anything serious at all. They don't seem worried or phased. However, I am also from Florida; and I can tell you that this storm is a big deal! The definition of denial is "the action of declaring something to be untrue." - If this sounds like you, please step back and look at this storm, it's actually a big deal!If you're on the Florida coast, it would be wise to leave unless you live in a place set up for storms. Don't worry about looking cool or tough, just be smart. "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice." - Proverbs 12:15
Faith
This is the category that all Christian's should fit into! Faith is the belief that God is in control and will take care of us. This doesn't mean be stupid and plan a beach day because your 'full of faith' and you know your safe. The bible says that faith without works is dead. As a good friend told me today "Believing for the best, but planning for the worst." - Faith in this situation looks like this: Not being fearful and not denying the danger, but taking action where we can and trusting God with what is out of our control.
Related Post: Choose Faith Over Fear
In ending this post, I want to encourage everyone to be safe! If you are a Christian, please be praying for the safety of the people in this city. (Also that the storm dies down or turns away!)