A Message of Comfort and Courage, prayers, songs of encouragement, and how you can help 💙
Dear Friends,
Last week Hurricane Helene roared ashore in the panhandle of Florida, surged through Georgia, and then stalled in the Appalachian mountains between Tennessee and North Carolina. In total, Helene dumped an astonishing 40 trillion gallons of water—that’s enough to fill 60 million Olympic swimming pools or to submerge the state of North Carolina under 3.5 feet of water. It’s the same amount of water that flows over Niagara Falls every 600 days. From Cedar Key, Florida, to Damascus, Virginia, towns felt Helene’s fury as it knocked out power, leveled houses and businesses, and caused historic flooding.
As a fifth-generation Floridian, I’ve weathered more storms than I care to recall, each leaving its mark in my memory. Living inland in central Florida has often shielded my community from the most brutal gales and torrential rains, yet the memories of frantic evacuations, stockpiling water and food, and ensuring our cars are filled with gas linger vividly in my mind. I can still feel the weight of flashlights 🔦 and mounds of batteries 🪫 tucked away for those restless nights when the power flickered out, a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable might.
Hurricanes, as unwelcome as they are, have always felt like an accepted part of life along the coast. They serve as a powerful metaphor for the storms we face in our spiritual journeys. Just as we prepare for the physical onslaught of wind and water, we are called to equip ourselves for the emotional and spiritual tempests that life may bring. In these moments of uncertainty, we lean into our faith, finding strength in the knowledge that God is our refuge, as stated in Psalm 46:1.
However, unlike typical storms, Hurricane Helene took a novel path and went up from the gulf coast, blazing a path almost five hours inland from the east coast from the Atlantic Ocean.
Particularly hard hit are the mountain towns and valleys near Mount Mitchell. The Nolichucky, French Broad, Swannanoa, and Pigeon Rivers, which carry rain runoff from Mount Mitchell to Douglas Lake, were completely overwhelmed. The Nolichucky River, typically just 1.5 feet deep, surged to 25.5 feet at its crest. At the height of the flooding, 54 people had to be rescued from the roof of a hospital in Unicoi County, TN by U.S. Army Black Hawk and Virginia State Police helicopters.
These rivers, once sources of life, turned into raging torrents that destroyed everything in their path. Entire towns have been washed away, and communities have been cut off, isolated as roads and bridges disappeared beneath the floodwaters. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, many of us are grappling with loss, uncertainty, and the heavy burden of rebuilding. Yet, as Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” This truth serves as our anchor, guiding us as we navigate the aftermath of such devastation.
Through every storm I have experienced, I’ve appreciated the love shown from community. Neighbors band together, sharing resources and offering support, much like the body of Christ, which Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 12. In the aftermath of each hurricane, we found not only restoration, but also resilience, as we rebuild and grow stronger both as individuals and as a people of faith.
As we face the challenges of today, let us remember that just as the storms are inevitable, so too is the grace that sustains us. Together, we can navigate the winds of adversity, finding hope in the promise that God walks with us through every trial.
When the skies darken and storms descend, it’s natural to question why such calamities occur. Theologian and Pastor Tim Keller spoke to this struggle, saying that “suffering is not just a test of faith; it is an opportunity for faith to grow” (Walking with God through Pain and Suffering). While we mourn what has been lost, we also look for the ways God is at work around us, providing comfort and strength in our darkest hours. The resilience of our neighbors, the outpouring of support from our communities, and the small acts of kindness we witness are all reflections of Christ’s love.
When hurricanes or severe weather hit, they can wreak havoc on our health and well-being. Flooding can lead to waterborne illnesses, and the mental strain of seeing your community turned upside down by the storm’s impact can be overwhelming. The stress can feel like too much to bear, especially as we watch the waters rise and realize that what was once just rain is now reshaping our lives.
Hurricanes like Helene disrupt lives, but they also reveal the incredible strength of community. When everything feels uncertain, neighbors rally together, showing resilience and support in ways that remind me of a giant potluck—but instead of casseroles, people bring blankets, medical supplies, and hot meals. It’s a beautiful image of how, even when the skies are gray, we can find hope and help when we need it and give hope and help to others in such trying days.
Even in the face of such devastation, the Bible shines a beacon of hope. Psalm 107:29 reassures us, “He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed.” It’s comforting to know that no matter how wild the storm, God remains in control, guiding us through the chaos with His unshakable presence. In His own way, He stills the storms in our hearts, even when the waters rage outside.
For those moments when you feel rattled, uncertain, or unsure how to pray, I want to offer some guidance. Sometimes, we just don’t have the words when the storm hits, and that’s okay. Here are three prayers that may help: one for healing and restoration, one for the children who are scared, and one for the hope and courage to rebuild.
A Prayer for Healing and Restoration After Hurricane Helene
Heavenly Father,
We come before You in this solemn moment, lifting up all those whose lives have been profoundly affected by Hurricane Helene. In the wake of this devastation, we seek Your comforting presence for those who are grieving, displaced, and feeling the weight of loss.
Lord, we ask for Your healing touch upon those who have been injured, both physically and emotionally. Wrap them in Your love and grace, restoring their spirits and granting them peace amidst the chaos. May they feel Your nearness in their pain and uncertainty.
For families who have lost homes and livelihoods, we pray for provision and hope. Help them to find shelter, resources, and support as they navigate this challenging season. Surround them with compassionate hearts willing to lend a hand and share in their burdens.
We also pray for the communities impacted by this storm. Unite them in resilience and strength as they begin the long process of rebuilding. May Your light shine through the darkness, inspiring acts of kindness and solidarity among neighbors.
Father, we trust in Your promises of renewal and restoration. Even in the hardest of times, remind us that You are our refuge and strength. Help us to look to You for guidance and to cling to the hope that You bring.
As we come together to support one another, may our actions reflect Your love and compassion. Empower us to be instruments of healing in this time of need.
In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen
Psalm 23 – a song of comfort – Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
My Help – Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
Prayer for Children Who Are Scared
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come to You with heavy hearts, lifting up the children who are feeling scared and anxious in this difficult time. Lord, You know their fears and worries; You understand their hearts better than anyone else.
As Your Word says in Isaiah 41:10, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” We ask for Your comforting presence to surround each child, wrapping them in Your love and peace. Calm their racing thoughts and soothe their troubled spirits.
Help them to remember Psalm 56:3: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Grant them the strength to face their fears and replace their anxiety with hope. Let them know that it is okay to feel scared and that they can always turn to You for comfort.
We pray that You provide caring adults to listen, support, and reassure these children. May they find joy in simple moments, laughter among friends, and the courage to express their feelings.
As a community, help us to protect and nurture our children, creating a safe space for healing. Let Your love shine brightly in their lives, guiding them through their fears and into the light of Your grace.
In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen
Here are two of my favorite songs to sing when I am afraid:
Be Bold, Be Strong
I Am Thankful
Prayer for Hope and the Will to Endure and Rebuild
Dear Heavenly Father ,
In this time of hardship and uncertainty, we come to You, seeking hope and strength. We acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, but we trust in Your unwavering presence and love.
Lord, fill our hearts with hope that transcends our circumstances. As Romans 15:13 reminds us, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Help us to see the light in the darkness and to believe in the possibility of renewal.
Grant us the will to endure through these trials. When we feel weary, give us strength; when we feel overwhelmed, grant us peace. Instill in us a spirit of resilience, as Philippians 4:13 assures us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
As the process of rebuilding begins, both physically and emotionally, guide their efforts. Help us all to work together as a community, united in purpose and love. May our hands be instruments of Your grace, creating a foundation of support and care for one another.
Let our actions reflect Your hope and compassion. May we share encouragement and kindness, fostering a spirit of togetherness that inspires others to join us in this journey.
With each step we take, remind us that You are with us, guiding us toward a brighter future. We place our trust in You, knowing that through You, we can endure and rebuild.
In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.
Ruins Rebuild My Soul – Thrive Worship
My King is Known By Love – The Clark Family
Pray these Biblical prayers, or prayers from your own heart. Intercede for yourself and others in need, and know God answers prayer.
In times of great need, the strength of our community is often reflected in our generosity and willingness to help one another. As they come together to rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, there are many ways to support those who have been affected. Whether through financial donations, volunteering your time, or offering prayers of encouragement, your contribution can make a profound difference in the lives of those recovering from the storm. Below, you’ll find several trusted organizations providing relief efforts—any support you can offer will go a long way in helping our neighbors rebuild and find hope again.
One option is from my friend and technical assistant. He is supporting a family from Boone, NC. Blake and her husband Evan and their 2 children lost their home and vehicle in the floodwaters and is currently searching for a new home. You can learn more about their story here: Blake and Evan Hannon
United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County
In moments of hardship, we are reminded that we are not alone. Our Christian faith calls us to lean on one another, to share our burdens, and to lift each other up in prayer. As we rebuild, may we do so with hope and courage, trusting that God’s grace will guide us every step of the way. 💙Together, we seek healing, restoration, and a renewed sense of purpose as we journey onward, united in Christ’s love.
Question? How has your faith helped you during challenging times like natural disasters or personal storms? In moments of uncertainty, what scripture or prayer brings you the most comfort? Who do you know that we can pray for? How can we pray for you or your loved ones? Leave your answers in the comments.
