There are times in our lives when we feel helpless to do anything. Helpless to lead, helpless to encourage, even helpless to help. In times like these we look for protection and shelter, a refuge to keep us in troubling times.

Just a few days ago we all were relieved when the sniper suspects were caught. During their reign of terror, we felt helpless: helpless to protect our children, helpless to guard our families, helpless to assist authorities. We looked for protection, and shelter, something that seemed out of our grasp.

Well my friends God's Word tells us that he is our refuge and strength, a very present help in the time of trouble. Oh yes, those were frightening times for us all, but our God brought us through. He protected us during this reign of terror and he help the authorities piece together the puzzle to put out the warrant for their arrest. It was the Lord who directed the truck driver to pull into that particular rest stop to see the suspects and make the call to authorities. Yes, God is a very present help in the time of trouble.

When the adversities of life come your way and your not sure what you should do or where you should go, remember that the Word of God tells us that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

"We would like to remember and pray for the families of the victims of the snipers. May God continue to comfort and keep you".