MICHAEL FERGUSON II: When adversity strikes, have faith … be still

By Michael Ferguson II

Quite a bit has happened since the new administration took over the reins on Jan. 20. I won’t belabor you with all the executive orders, deportations, or revoking of security details and the threats of tariffs.

The approach that I recommend may seem contrary to popular opinion; even though it may be just what the doctor ordered.

Be still.

There was a story in the scriptures where the waves were thunderous and the sea was roaring. All the inhabitants of the boat feared for their lives and sought guidance from their leader. They found their leader sleeping in the mist of the storm.

Upon waking him and bringing attention to their seemingly dire situation, they inquired whether he even cared if they perished. His response was a question: Where is your faith?

My question to the audience is, where is your faith? Too often we exhibit knee-jerk reactions to storms that come in our lives and act as if we have never faced adversity. King Solomon’s advisor provided him with a ring with the Hebrew phrase “gam zeh ya’avor” engraved on it. That translates to “this too shall pass.”

This does not mean that action is not necessary. Many of us in southwest Georgia experienced the ravages of Hurricane Michael. It was not until after the storm had subsided that we able to take an accurate assessment of the damage and map out a strategy for appropriate action.

The damage was substantial, and many seemingly lost everything. Their possessions were destroyed, and some homes could not be replaced. Over time, with some assistance from others, they rebuilt their lives.

Prior to Hurricane Michael, we experienced the Flood of ’94.

I think you understand my message: Faith allows you to face adversity and prevail. It is written in the scriptures that, “Without faith, you can’t please God.”

When the “shock and awe” subsides from our newly elected government, then we as Americans can utilize our constitutional right to vote our interest during the next election cycle.

The above-mentioned prescription is merely a political response; however, we can utilize our faith and put it to work right where we live.

My mood is “Where Is Your Faith?” performed by the Rev. James Cleveland.