Read: 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Javier looked out the window. Rain rattled on the roof, and thunder jolted his eardrums. “Why is it so loud, Mom?” he asked.

“The storm is getting closer,” replied Mom. “The reporter on TV said the basement is the safest place in storms like this, so let’s go.” Mom handed Javier a jug of water and a couple of flashlights. “You can carry these,” she said. “I’ll grab some snacks and our emergency pack.”

They hurried down the stairs and huddled in a corner of the basement as the wind shook the house. “The wind is so strong,” said Javier nervously.

“Yes,” said Mom, “but we’re sheltered from it. And we have snacks and lights and other supplies to keep us comfortable.” She handed him a granola bar.

“Thanks—peanut butter’s my favorite!” Javier bit into the bar and chewed thoughtfully. “It’s good to be prepared for storms like this, isn’t it?”

“Yes, it is,” said Mom. “Did you know God wants us to also prepare for storms that may come along in life?”

“So we’ll be ready for whatever happens to us?” asked Javier.

“Exactly. Can you think of ways we can be ready for whatever happens in our lives here on earth?”

“Well, we believed what the weather reporter said and came to the basement, and we also need to believe what God says and trust Jesus to save us from sin,” said Javier.

“Good,” said Mom. “That’s most important. What else?”

"We brought lights,” said Javier. “And the Bible is called a light, isn’t it?”

“Yes,” said Mom. “It shows us our need for Jesus and the sacrifice He made to save us, and it shines on our lives so we can follow the path God wants for us as His children. Any more ideas?”

“Uh…we brought food and water,” said Javier. “Is that like the Bible too?”

Mom nodded. “As we get to know Jesus through what He says in the Bible, He will nourish us spiritually and remind us to trust Him for strength when life brings hard times.”

Javier sat up straight. “Hey, Mom, it’s not blowing so hard anymore! Shouldn’t we pray and thank God for protecting us?”

“You bet!” said Mom, and together they bowed their heads.

–Jaclyn S. Miller

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