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TRUST JESUS TODAY

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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: STORM (10/05/17)
BE PREPARED

(Matthew 24:38 -39, 44 NLT)
In those days before the flood, people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat.

Ken noticed in the distance a few clouds on the horizon but they were
'nothing to worry about'. Though his tanned 30 year old arms were tired and three snapper were lying in 'Nimanoa', he was determined to catch more. Fishing was his passion and relaxation after wielding a hammer all week on his latest building contract. With the promise to his mates of a big feed at the BBQ tonight on his mind, he baited up another line and cast it as far as he could.

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(Matthew 24: 12 – 13, 39,44 NLT)
People didn't realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.
Sin will be rampant everywhere and the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

After a two hour virtual fishing frenzy, Ken brushed back his blond hair smiling at the magnificent haul of fish – he was satisfied. However, the few clouds spotted earlier had changed to a more threatening grey mass being pushed toward him by strong winds. The weather on the bay could change very quickly - best to put on the life jacket and head for home. He was suddenly extremely worried. Feeling guilty about neglecting his faith over the past months due to work and other commitments he nevertheless shot up a quick prayer for help.

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(Matthew 24:21 – 22 NLT)
For there will be greater anguish than at any time since the world began. And it will never be so great again.
(Proverbs 7:1 -3 NKJ)
My son, keep my words, and treasure my commands within you. Keep my commands and live, and my law as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.

How could he have miscalculated so badly? This storm had swept up so very quickly with waves now over a meter, rain beginning and temperature dropping. Suddenly, sputtering noises came from the engine. He gave it full throttle in hope it would clear. No luck. “I should have had it serviced last week!” Ken thumped the top of the engine in frustration. Much stronger winds, even higher waves and pelting rain created dreadful conditions. Nimanoa was rocking violently. Out of nowhere came a rogue wave, turning it upside down, dumping Ken into the water.

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(Psalm 62 5-8 NKJ)
My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation. He is my defense; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory; The rock of my strength and my refuge is in God. Trust in Him at all times, you people. Pour out your heart before Him. God is a refuge for us.

Rising to the surface, gasping for air, Ken saw Nimanoa within swimming distance. Grateful for his life jacket and thanking the Lord for His strength, he was able to get to the side of the boat in spite of the pounding waves. The storm continued to rage unabated. Ken managed to cling to the side of the upturned boat. Forgotten in the preceding trauma, he remembered his waterproof mobile phone. Extricating it from his jacket pocket Ken prayed and dialed 000. The message got through. Help was on its way! While waiting for his rescuers Ken reviewed his life and vowed to fully commit to following Jesus. Soon afterwards the wind rain and waves abated enabling the coast guard to find him more quickly. There were no fish at the BBQ but lots of joyful thanksgiving with his mates.


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How prepared are we for the coming events? Are we aware of the signs Jesus warned of or are we like Ken, partly prepared? Let's strengthen our faith, treasure His Word deep in our hearts and trust Him at all times. We will then be ready for any 'storm' which will eventuate.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Jenny Fulton 
10/13/17
Great job tying Bible verses with a suspenseful, narrative story.
This is maybe more a matter of my own understanding and the age we live in, but when I read, "virtual fishing frenzy" I thought of all the "virtual reality" stuff and wondered if the mc was playing a video game. Fortunately, the rest of the story straightened that out for me. :)
Larry Whittington
10/16/17
As in the days of Noah, many were lost but only a few were saved. Have we entered through the narrow gate or are we walking on the broad way.

Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling -- before it is too late.

A good warning to all.