Praise You in This Storm

I'm stealing the Casting Crowns song title for the title of this post because I am praying that all of us affected will be able to ultimately praise God in the midst of a hard time. A very dear childhood friend of mine was killed tragically last night. Sam Frazier was one of the first friends I had when my family moved to Guntersville. He probably contributed a great deal to who I am today, especially my tomboy tendencies because he and I spent so much time together. His family was like my second family, taking care of me when my parents were gone and such.

I am not going to pretend that Sam's death was an accident and I don't think his family would want me to. Sam had been battling some demons in his life for a long time, and it finally got to him. None of the circumstances make it any easier, but I am already amazed at how the Lord is providing peace for Sam's dad, Rocky. When I called Rocky planning to comfort and encourage him, instead he consoled and comforted me. Rocky told me that this may have been God's way of relieving Sam from how tired he was of battling his demons. He told me that Sam loved me and to cherish all the memories I have with him. Rocky also told my dad that none of this will be in vain if just one person gets right with God or understands the danger of the drug lifestyle. To me, this is what Casting Crowns and Paul are talking about when they say praise Him in the storm and the tough times.

I am praising God for teaching me things in the midst of a storm. I am learning never to take for granted the concern I have for friends. We never know how much time any of us has, and if I have a concern about a friend's life and eternity I can't ignore it. I'm not beating myself up or anything, I just want to seize every opportunity God gives me to have an impact on a person and embrace His power as I do that rather than thinking that I could never say or do anything that would make a difference.

I will always remember the great times that Sam and I had together. Please pray for his family as they deal with this grief and pray that God will use this to work for the good of those who love Him as He promises. It is so painful right now and I know even more so for Sam's family, but I am so comforted to know that God holds my every tear in His hand.


I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down
and wiped our tears away,
stepped in and saved the day.
But once again, I say amen
and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain,
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to You
and raised me up again
my strength is almost gone how can I carry on
if I can't find You
and as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away

And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth