Yesterday morning was one like many others.  I saw my husband off to work, finished my Bible Study for the morning, and headed off to the shower.  In the midst of my shower, I began hearing some loud banging sounds, which to me sounded like they came from within my house.  I thought someone was either trying to break down a door or was already inside throwing things around.  Immediately, I was filled with fear thinking all sorts of serious problems with the coupling of an intruder in my home and my being in the shower.  My obsessive- compulsive mind began playing out scenerios -- and all were horrific, when suddenly the Lord brought to my mind...

"Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell."  (Matthew 10:28)

"Do not fear, for I am with you;  Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."  (Isaiah 41:10)

A most amazing calm flooded my soul and I began thinking rationally, the fear having completely subsided.  I finished my shower (so I wouldn't be slipping all over the place in soap and shampoo), got out and locked the bathroom door (after hearing another loud bang), dressed and loaded my Beretta, prayed and then went through the entire house room by room.  Praise the God of heaven and earth that there was no one in my home, that I didn't have to use my gun, and most of all -- that He replaced my fleshly fear with a heavenly trust in His goodness, no matter the outcome.  Only God can do that!

I searched the entire house, inside and out, never finding the source of the noise.  Maybe it was the Lord testing my faith?  Maybe it was the Lord showing me what He could do through the power of His living Word planted deep in my heart.  Whatever the case, glory be to the Lord! 

I must confess that last night I talked to my husband about the whole thing and I did tell him that I might start taking a shower with a locked door and my loaded AR15.  So, maybe my faith still needs a little boost, Lord.  Come Lord Jesus and grant me faith that brings the peace that surpasses all understanding.  May I not live with a spirit of fear, knowing by whom I've been bought and by whom I'm kept.  Thank you for the measure of faith You miraculously granted to me yesterday morning.  May my heart and mind be united to trust in You!

"I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come?  My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." (Psalm 121:1-2)