One of the benefits of your salvation is that you can go boldly to God's throne to find grace and mercy to help you in time of need. That is one thing that you should not hesitate to tell others about in this world of sickness and sadness.
I was studying about the Apostle Paul this morning and in my studies it told the story of how Paul and his fellow shipmates survived a shipwreck (Acts 27). The commentary gave great insight into how Paul responded with calm during the crisis and was a living testimony of God's salvation.
In a similar way, you can remain calm during crises and tell others about how God savedyou. Remember the acronym C.A.L.M.
Call on the Lord. The bible remindsyou in Deuteronomy 4:7, "For what great nation is there that has God so near to it, as the LORD our God is to us, for whatever reason we may call upon Him?" The operative phrase is for 'whatever reason.' Isn't that amazing? The God who created the universe says that you can call him up wheneveryou have a need. Whether you need protection, provision, direction, or salvation, He is available to help.
Remember, Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall - all you have to do is call!
Anticipate His answer. God promises us in Psalm 91:15: "He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him." So wait with expectation for the Lord to help you as He promised. God does not lie; He always keeps His word.
Listen for his direction. One of the important things to remember when you need help is to avoid panic or fear. Both of these emotions are like static on the radio; they make it hard to hear God's still, small voice. In addition, when you panic, you may take rash actions that you will regret later. So take deep breaths and focus on the fact that God promised never to leave you nor forsake you. He is right there with you in the midst of the storm. He wants to lead you and guide you safely through. As you obey his direction, he will bring you to the location that will bring Him ultimate Glory!
Make known his salvation. When God has delivered you from the storm, then don't keep your mouth shut. Tell others about what God has done for you - that is how God gets the Glory. When they see how you responded with calm and grace, then they gain hope that they can do the same with God's help.
So use the C.A.L.M formula whenever you are facing a storm or better yet, use it every morning. In that way, you become so familiar with the process when times are good, that it will be second nature when times are challenging.
You will also demonstrate your trust in the Lord. As the scripture promises, you can count on Him to direct your path.