I Prayed have prayed
Lord Jesus, the radar of this world shows constant storms and hurricanes. Certainly, we can prepare our homes, but more importantly, help us prepare our hearts. Give us shelter and peace in your strong arms.
Reading Time: 6 minutes

Living in Florida my whole life, I’ve seen my share of storms and hurricanes. By now, I should be used to it. Nevertheless, each time I spy a new one on the radar, a wave of anxiety stirs up within me. What do I worry about? Oh, the usual things–my house, roof, pets, cars, losing power, no air conditioning, downed trees, flooding, and whatever else pops into my head. God has carried me through many rough storms, so why do I fret each time I hear the words hurricane and Florida mentioned together in a sentence?

Get prayer updates from IFA.

 

The Lord is certainly gracious—even with my doubts, He provides encouragement as the eye of the storm is bearing down. When Hurricane Ian began making its way toward Orlando, I had no idea the Lord would use something so small to teach me something really big.

The Little Fig Tree that Could

A few days before the storm arrived, my husband pointed out a juicy fig that had formed on the very top of our fig tree. Noticing it wasn’t ripe, he suggested leaving it on the tree for a week or two. As Hurricane Ian approached Orlando on September 28, 2022, I started thinking about the fig tree and wondered if it would be damaged by the high winds of the storm. The thought crossed my mind that I should go and pick that little fig at the top of the tree before the storm barreled through. But as I made my way toward the tree something stopped me in my tracks. The still small voice of the Holy Spirit whispered, “The little fig will hold on during the storm.” The Holy Spirit’s message reminded me of the story called the The Little Engine that Could. I decided to take a picture of the fig on the tree before the hurricane. If the fig was still there after it passed, I would take another photo as a reminder of the message.

Before the storm hit, I also placed a printed copy of Psalm 91 on the back porch, which was close to the fig tree and several other trees in the backyard. This is my favorite psalm of protection and I figured it was a great reminder that no matter what happened, God’s mighty wings would surround my home.

The storm hit early in the evening and right away I could see gusts of wind battering the fig tree. Hours and hours went by as the tallest branch with the fig dangling from it endured powerful gusts and constant pounding rain. But through it all, that little fig kept hanging on. By 4 a.m. the winds were intensifying and I thought, Surely this is the end for the little fig.” At that point, however, I couldn’t see through the hammering rain. I decided to go to sleep.

When I woke up three hours later, the winds were still howling, but had slowed down. From the back sliding door, I had a clear view of the fig tree. And guess what? The little fig was still holding on. I couldn’t believe it!

As I walked out to the back porch, I noticed the printed copy of Psalm 91 I had placed there before the storm. It was wet and torn, but still readable.

In that moment I knew the Lord had taught me something quite valuable and it was no coincidence that the Holy Spirit urged me to pay attention to the that little fig, as well as print out the copy of Psalm 91.

What I learned through this experience will change the way I view disasters and difficult situations in my life. Firstly, seeing that little fig being battered by the winds and rain reminded me of how life can be full of storms and hurricanes. Some days, it seems we cannot bear what we are dealing with, whether it be a situation with a family member, or the never-ending fight for our nation and its core values. A one hundred mile-per-hour gust hits us in the face, nearly knocking us to the ground. Through it all, the Lord reminds us to be like the little fig that braced itself to the tree. In the same way, we must brace ourselves when our lives and the world become turbulent. The word brace means to get ready for something which could be difficult or unpleasant by providing added physical support or strength. Middle English describes brace as clasping or fastening tightly. In French, however, the word brace comes from bracier, which means to embrace. This word derives from braciere, which refers to a lining of armor that protects the arm. But even more telling is that in Latin, the word brace is related to bracchia, which means arm.

Before the storm was on the weather radar, the Holy Spirit brought the story of the Exodus to mind. After studying the Ten Plagues, as well as God’s amazing rescue of the Israelites in Egypt, there was an important phrase I noticed that was repeated within the text: I will redeem you with an outstretched arm (Exodus 6:6).  Throughout this story of deliverance, the Lord’s powerful outstretched arm or hand was used to show that God was in complete control and it was HE who would do the saving.

The human arm is often used in scripture to show spiritual power and strength. Yet the source of strength is not in human power, but in Almighty God. There are more than 40 verses that attest to God’s powerful arm. This is revealed beautifully in Isaiah 53, where Jesus is described as the suffering Messiah who would die on the cross. It begins: And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealedhe was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,  and with his wounds we are healed (Isaiah 53:1,5). These verses show that God bears His arm by delivering us through his Son Jesus. He not only bears our punishment, but he also takes on the storms that attempt to wreak havoc in our life.

The little fig held on despite the powerful blasts of wind–despite the stinging rain. It held on tightly to the branch at the top of the fig tree. Likewise, Jesus is referred to as the Righteous Branch. We can brace ourselves to Him.

Behold, the Lord God comes with might,  and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him…He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom (Isaiah 40:10-11).

In these difficult times, the Lord will carry us. His ARM is mighty to save. The battered and torn copy of Psalm 91 that lay on my porch after the storm attests to this and even reminds us to hold fast (brace ourselves) to Jesus.

Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation (Psalm 91:14-16).

Hurricane Ian brought widespread flooding and severe damage to homes, cars, and buildings. Additionally, many of us were without electrical power during the storm, but with Jesus to hold on to, we weren’t truly powerless. Like “the little fig that could,” we had to hold on tight and ride out the storm. Afterward, we must press on all the more, relying on Jesus to provide what is needed to thrive and survive.

A few days after the storm my son found a beautiful cockatiel outside on the branch of a tree. Likely, he was someone’s lost pet. Perhaps he accidentally flew away before or after the storm. My son gently picked him up and gave him safe shelter inside the house. Exhausted, thirsty, and hungry, the bird eagerly received the food and water my son gave him.

The bird that needed rescue reminded me of Psalm 91:4. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge. Then verse 5 says, you will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day. In this dark world of storms, pandemics, and lawless governments, we can rest assured that the strong arm and hand of the Lord is fastened tightly to us, providing nourishment and safe shelter. Interestingly enough, the last word in Psalm 91 is salvation. This is quite revealing because Jesus’ name means salvation.

Yes, the world is out of control, but He is not. The arms of Jesus are perfectly stable and able to SAVE. In disasters, floods, and everyday tribulations, be the “little fig that could” and stand firm with Him.

Prayer Point: Lord, we know the storms and hurricanes of life wear us down with torrents of wind and rain. But even in the flood, you will reach out with your mighty hand so we can take hold of it and be pulled to safety. We trust your sovereignty over all situations.

Are you encouraged? Please share this article with a friend.

Angela Rodriguez is an author, blogger and homeschooling Mom who studies the historical and biblical connections between Israel and the United States. You can visit her blogs at 67owls.com and 100trumpets.com. Her latest book, Psalm 91: Under the Wings of Jesus, was released in June 2021. Photo Credit: Jametlene Reskp on Unsplash.

Comments (44) Print

Comments

Leave A Reply

Your email address will not be published.

ML
October 11, 2022

Such a great column! Reminds me of the story of building our house on the Rock, not on sand—the winds and storms came and beat on “BOTH “ houses; yet the one built on the Rock stood firm. I also like the story of the little fig and the bird— reminds me of the verse that says that God uses “ the weak things of this world to confound the things which are mighty “—I Corinthians 1:27. Jesus used often the simplest things in parables to reveal the strength of simple faith.
Love her teachings!

Vashti Monica Ford
October 8, 2022

What an analogy! Perfect example of our God’s ability and protection

1
Victoria Z
October 7, 2022

Father it is sad and unfortunate that so many are without this type of faith to hear your voice and see these types of miracles that defy all odds like the fig defying winds that ripped whole trees out by their roots and ripped houses off their foundations. Father so many are without this faith, without a personal relationship with you and your word and they suffer untold losses in these storms and all the “storms of life” including financial, health, relationships, etc. i ask for your great massive outpouring on our nation and the world soon so that all can be made aware and given every opportunity to come to you, cling to you, and claim all you long to give them. Thank you.

5
Elizabeth Engel (Liz)
October 7, 2022

Thank you so much, Angela!! Tho living in CO, I have close
friends who snowbird in Ft. Myers! Tho they lost roof
shingles and their deck, I praise God they weren’t there, AND
still have their home!! What a miracle!!
Your testimony here, is WONDERFUL!! I’m truly uplifted by
our Lord’s leading you before and after Ian – amazing!! I sent
this on to my Ft. Myers friend, and pray that many people read your story soon!! God bless you greatly!!
Gratefully in Him, Liz

2
Marsha Bashor
October 7, 2022

This story is so wonderful and encouraging, and good for the heart. Thank you for sharing it! ❣️

5
Anita
October 6, 2022

Great article on God’s faithfulness. We live in Jacksonville, and God spared us too. I have been deeply humbled by His mercy. My heart and prayers are with
SW Florida. This really encouraged me also, as it applies to the daily storms in our lives and what is going on in our nation. God bless the author.

18
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    Anita, I am so glad it encouraged you. May God continue to speak to you through every day reminders and events.

Karen Secrest
October 6, 2022

Mind boggler: this author went to sleep with howling winds? Truly the Father only gives us rest.
Reminds me of Paul and others in jail. An angel had to wake him up ..lol

11
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    Hi Jessica. Thank you for reading. Regarding the cockatiel, we couldn’t find the original owner, but ending up finding a great home for him with a man who had just lost both of his birds. The man was so happy to have the sweet bird after being so heartbroken. My son already has a cockatiel so we were prepared to keep him if needed. But it made the man so happy to receive the “little gift from God”. Thanks for sharing and may God bless you!

Janet Nolte
October 6, 2022

Thank you so much! So good to see exsmplrs of our Father’s care in the middt of storms.

8
Rick
October 6, 2022

I had a starfruit tree with tiny fruit on it, not ready to pick. God allowed them to ride the storm without falling off, as well! Thank you for your uplifting article.

5
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    Rick, that is awesome about the starfruit! My son’s favorite treat is starfruit. I will have to share this with him. Thanks for sharing.

Rose Rocha
October 6, 2022

Thank you for this beautiful article Angela. Know we are praying for you and all you love. Continue doing what you are doing.
I pray God bless you mightily beyond your expectation. For God’s glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen

8
Leslie Pimental
October 6, 2022

What an encouraging testimony. I love Psalm 91. It’s one of my very favorite Psalms. It’s a covenant of protection to those who dwell in His secret place. In His presence, praying, reading His Word and believing His word and speaking it over us. Thank you for sharing Angela❤️

11
Cynthia Carswell
October 6, 2022

Loved this encouraging story6. It will be a keeper in my saved files!

7
    Gina
    October 7, 2022

    I appreciated this more than you can know. Thank you so much, and God bless you!

    1
      Angela Rodriguez
      October 7, 2022

      Gina, I’m so glad it helped you! May Jesus show you many amazing miracles in your life! Thank you for reading.

Gail Wood
October 6, 2022

I have lived in north central Florida all of my life and again,we are in the best part of Florida if you have to sustain a hurricane.
It is so sad for all of the Floridians who sustained such devastating loss and our hearts and prayers go out to them all.
We also praise God that we mostly sustained gusty winds and rain only.
My prayers go out to the families who lost loved ones. May God bless and comfort them.
Father in Jesus Holy name I pray that You will bring the comfort and peace to those who suffered material loss and those who lost love ones. We pray Father that all will be restored to them soon and that You will bring them the peace that can only come from You.
If anyone hasn’t heard of Kat Kerr look her up on Rumble or YouTube.
She lives in Jacksonville,Florida. She has a group of people called Storm Warriors. It is amazing how God moves when they pray. I was really blessed by God’s word that she gave about the weather and the authority that God has given us through His Son Jesus.
God bless you all.

7
CN
October 6, 2022

As usual Angela….a very encouraging & uplifting article. My heart is greatly burdened for what the great state of FL had to endure. As a state with leadership that continually tries to align itself with the principles of God’s word & commands, we know full well that the enemy is trying to attack. The enemy will continue to lose. God will bring greater unity, blessings & strength to the people of FL & it’s leaders. They will come forth with greater faith in God. The enemy of mankind “cannot have the people or state of FL… because it belongs to God Almighty”.
For the naysayers – God never, ever said we wouldn’t go through storms or difficulties but His promises continue to hold true….He is there in the midst and through the aftermath of any storm. Blessed be the holy name of the Lord!!!
*Lord, we pray for a mighty outreach from Your hand to bless FL beyond anything they have ever experienced. We ask that You would increase all good things 10 to a hundredfold for FL in finances, materials, physical help, wisdom, knowledge, peace of mind and faith. Give an incredible increase of wisdom & knowledge to their leadership. Pour out Your spirit & increase everyone’s faith. We pray for thousands more to come to You Lord for salvation….amen.

16
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    CN,
    Thank you so much for reading and for your encouraging words of wisdom. Your prayers are heartfelt and much needed. May God use you as a powerful intercessor in these difficult times.

COLLEEN Storms
October 6, 2022

This touched me and I’m as far from hurricanes as you can be in the US. It is the goodness of God and His speaking to us in our innermost place where fear and worry can try to disrupt us. Bracing in Him is indeed what we need! Thank you!

10
Annie
October 6, 2022

A quick little comment… We know that DeSantis LOVES the Lord! The ‘enemy ‘ has been the ‘ destroyer ‘ in Florida. 1st …Ron DeSantis’s wife, Casey, struck with breast cancer. God healed her! 2nd… the devastation of Florida. satan is relentless! Oh, but it is WAR! War between God and satan! Oh, but we know the end of the story! GOD WINS!!

11
Etta Danielson
October 6, 2022

Thank you Angela! This was so encouraging and a confirmation. I had a vision of GOD, He appeard as a large cloud with a huge outstretched arm and hand. I heard “[ AM holding back the evil one and he will go no further”.

9
Phil Miglioratti
October 6, 2022

We survived the hurricane with very little damage; my family and house are safe and I damaged. I am enormously grateful the storm took a turn away from us.

But I wonder what my family and friends who sustained a direct and very damaging hit because of that turn would think about our spiritualizing the devastation that took place.

As a survivor, I can resonate with using the wind and the rain as reminders of our God’s strength. But I wonder how I would read about a protected tree while my house was destroyed.

Lately, it is not unanswered prayer that troubles me. But answered prayer does. (“Lord, turn that storm away from my house.”)

2
    Jessica Renshaw
    October 6, 2022

    I see your point, Phil.

    1
    C
    October 7, 2022

    GOD IS SOVEREIGN! It is good to be grateful when HE blesses us and to be sad when others are hurting! One does not cancel out the other! How encouraging is this story of the fig tree in Florida! FATHER GOD please send YOUR angels to surround and help those that lost loved ones and/or property in this last storm. Please supply every need they have, spiritually, emotionally, physically, and materially in the MIGHTY NAME OF JESUS! Amen!

    3
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    Hi Phil, I see what you are saying. My main message would be that no matter what happens, we have to keep holding on. I’ve had horrible things happen in my life and the only thing I could do was call out to Jesus and hold tight to him. Everything else was out of my control, but he was the firm foundation for me. When the little fig survived, it reminded me that we have to cling to Jesus no matter what happens–good or bad. I am definitely praying for all those who lost their homes and livelihoods. Thank you for reading and for your insight. May God bless you!

Kellie
October 6, 2022

This is beautiful! Thank you for sharing ❤️

8
Karen
October 6, 2022

Thank you for sharing. I just was praying and repenting about the “torrents” of challenging days we are living in, with sin raging, infirmities hitting loved ones, our nations turning away from God, bad news always on the horizon…and then I read this beautiful story. I know it was the sweet voice of the Lord, answering my hearts cries.
Great story!

4
Eve Clair
October 6, 2022

I love this story and will share it with my blind friend.

3
Angela Nicholas
October 6, 2022

Yes I grew up in Florida as well and I remember hurricane drills as a child tornado drills lots of storm lots of creepy things but what really amazed me about the story of course all of it but when I saw the picture of Psalm 91 I saw the state of Florida when it is flipped the shape of the state o the state where the Son shall shine again let there be great revival in Florida 🙏
I hear the Lord saying He is about to flip the state of Florida for His glory
There will be a great turn around hearts returning back to the Lord in the eye of the storm eyes will return back to Jesus . Lord let your glory cover this earth amen 🙏

12
Gene
October 6, 2022

I just loved the fig story! As a child I lived in a hurricane zone and to this day living in Ga, it also brings stress. I had to share the fig story with my 15 year old son, and told him to read it aloud. . This year he went back to school after being homeschooled for 5 years, and every morning before he leaves to school, we read the beautiful Psalm 91 … my favorite part being, “He will cover you with his feathers and under his wings you will find refuge…” The fig story brought memories of a hurricane that we went thought many years ago and mom also had a similar experience! God is good and surely he will cover you under his wings in all season of life, even when we don’t understand what’s happening around us!

6
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    Gene, that’s wonderful that you can share this story with your son! I homeschool my son as well and I can relate to what you are saying. I pray for you to see many Psalm 91 miracles in your life and for your son to see them as well. Thank you for the encouragement.

Elaine
October 6, 2022

Just love that story so encouraging to all of us! Sounds like another book to me! Love the little fig tree, psalm 91 which I am reading . When the hurricane came and after! The bird touch me too!

7
Blanca
October 6, 2022

Great words: we can testify the awesome power of God: living in fla all my life: I have seen storms go and come: but in two occasions in Tampa Bay ( the bay of the HOLY Spirit: as the Spaniards named it on the maps) the bay has inverted and didn’t accept the full attack of the storm: we prayed during the week during all the spaghetti projection: as the day of the landing: the Lord almighty God: told me it’s shifting: I prayed Psalm 91 and 121 over our states people: as the wind roar outside: we call our home Joseph’s coat of many colors united by the blood of the lamb JESUS: house of bread: the trees swayed back and forth: we have fruit trees, and two old oak trees: the oaks swayed: out of one a huge limb fell down as if someone picked it up and laid down: it didn’t touch neither us or our neighbors house. Our house is very old and Ian decided to take a bite of our old roof: through it we praised the Lord: we still had electric and water : like the children of Israel in the land of Goshen. We still are praying for the families of Florida who are in dire strates. Because we could have been in their shoes. We pray for our governor and the administration at hand that they will accomplish the impossible task set before them. We pray also those who speak 🗣️ evil agendas against us : that the Lord almighty God have mercy as HE has had with us. In Jesus name.

21
    B
    October 7, 2022

    Bianca, Tampa Bay, the Bay of the HOLY SPIRIT! Wow! Amazing! We intercessors in Ohio were praying for you all and everyone in the storm!

    3
Janet
October 6, 2022

I do like this article. I am very metaphorical in my thinking about God and the signs in nature that draws me to Him. However, There was an elderly couple who passed away in the storm Ian because they were both on oxygen and it failed when electricity went off. There was a couple who could not reach their daughter because the storm wrecked the road to her home. They found her finally but she had passed away. I have gone through major hurricanes and tropical systems in Texas. Twice my house flooded up to 6 feet in the first story and I lost all my possessions in those rooms .and my car but God was gracious to everytime preserve our lives.
What is the most important prayer I feel is for those who have lost loved ones as that grief is so beyond the loss of things. You can’t reconcile it with the replacement is better than what I had theory as I was able to. And so my prayer is that the many who have lost family or friend will draw close to the Lord at this time as it brings death, and eternity into their vision. I prayed for my cousin who was in the surges’ path however it went south of her so her house and life were spared. Yet, it is difficult to think of those who ended up in the path instead.

Lord, there is so much to try to comprehend at these times . The fig on that tree was spared yet others elsewhere were not – we must still trust in Your omnipotence, and Your Word at these times when life does not fit our desired narrative. Lord, help our unbelief. You have each of days written out before there was one of them . Help us Lord to praise You with every morning sun so we can make the most of each precious day given. Amen.

42
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    Janet, thank you for sharing all your experiences. It really makes one contemplate how these storms affect so many people in multiple ways. You are right that we have to trust God’s omnipotence and his sovereignty in all things, especially storms. May God bless you and continue giving you his perspective in all difficult situations.

Allena Jordan
October 6, 2022

This is a beautiful story. Thank you, Angela, for sharing your heart and what the Lord is teaching you. Through you, we learn more about trusting our mighty God. Hallelujah!

21
    Nancy Rife
    October 6, 2022

    I loved “The Little Engine that Could” as a kid and I loved reading it to my kids and grandkids. Thank you for sharing such an encouraging story, Angela, as the storms of life are swirling around us on many sides.

    14
      Angela Rodriguez
      October 7, 2022

      That’s so sweet Nancy! Thank you for reading and sharing with your family. You are so encouraging!!! May God richly bless you!

Cathy
October 6, 2022

Love it, Love it, Love it!! So wonderful to hear the stories from God’s People of faith during Hurricane Ian! Isn’t it awesome to claim Romans 8:28 for our brothers and sisters there? God truly uses ALL circumstances for His Good for those who love Him and live according to His Purpo:se.

THANK you for sharing your story and how God used your faith in Him during Hurricane Ian. I can’t stop smiling….truly heartwarming…

32
    Angela Rodriguez
    October 7, 2022

    Cathy, I’m so happy you liked it and that it encouraged you! You made me smile!!! Thank you so much for reading and I pray God will continue showing you the fruit of Romans 8:28.

Partner with Us

Intercessors for America is the trusted resource for millions of people across the United States committed to praying for our nation. If you have benefited from IFA's resources and community, please consider joining us as a monthly support partner. As a 501(c)3 organization, it's through your support that all this possible.

Dave Kubal
IFA President
Become a Monthly Partner

Share

Click below to share this with others

Log in to Join the Conversation

Log in to your IFA account to start a discussion, comment, pray, and interact with our community.