when the ceiling crashes in

Recently my wife and I were enjoying a restful Sunday afternoon when an awful "crashing" sound caused us to look into our garage:  the ceiling had fallen in.  At the time we had no idea what had caused the collapse, but we immediately knew we had a big mess.  It took several days to clear out ceiling panel and insulation.  It took several additional days to move items from our garage into storage so that workers could begin their repairs.  It was hard to believe how quickly things had gone from "relaxation and peace" to "shock and chaos."  But sometimes life is just like that:  on the surface all is going well, but then "the ceiling crashes in!"  What do we do when we are awakened to discover that life is now a mess?...

When faced with sudden calamities, I find the book of Psalms to be a wonderful source of comfort and strength.  While there are many passages to chose from, I would like to share with you just a few of my favorites:

Ps 46:1:  God is my refuge and strength, a ever-present help in times of trouble.

Ps 121:1-2:  I lift up my eyes to the mountains - where does my help come from. My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and earth.

Ps. 4:3:  Know that the Lord has set apart His faithful servant for Himself; the Lord hears when I call to Him.

Ps. 23:4:  Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Ps 5:11:  Let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy.  Spread Your protection over them, that those who love your Name may rejoice in You.

Ps. 27:1:  The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?

Ps. 55:22:  Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.

Obviously I could go on and on.  The point, however, is clear:  God is with us and available to us in times of trouble.  When it seems like the "world is crashing in around us," God is one to whom we can turn and He will see us through!
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​Thanks be to God!