A natural disaster like the July 4 Guadalupe River flood inflicts painful loss for years.
At least 129 people were killed.
Over 160 remain missing.
The Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in less than an hour at dawn on July 4, 2025.
This is worse than a 100-year flood event, according to experts.
Approximately 100 billion gallons of rain fell on Kerr County, more than the daily flow of Niagara Falls.
Is it possible to storm-proof the future?
And later, loss?
Some folks say it’s never wise to camp by a river, especially one in the middle of “Flash Flood Alley,” where a historic flood in August 1978 and another in July 1987 caused multiple fatalities.
But I think it’s fair to say there’s no place in the world to camp without risks.
An old Spanish proverb says, “There is no home which does not at some time know its hush.”
Three decisive steps may set a healing course for anyone drowning in tragedy.
1. A spiritual foundation withstands loss
Since any storm can take us out quickly, why not storm-proof your soul?
I thought my neighborhood in Dallas was safe until an EF-3 tornado came through.
On Sunday night, October 25, 2019, ten tornadoes plowed through North Texas and flattened houses, buildings, and shopping centers in minutes.
Nobody died. But many sat roofless for a year or more.
The difference between the wise and foolish is not luck or location.
Its foundation.
Not a physical foundation, but a spiritual foundation.
Governor Abbott noted that Texans are known for their faith, strength, and resilience, and that in times of loss, people turn to God for comfort, healing, and strength.
He encouraged Texans to join him in prayer on Sunday, July 6th, for various needs related to the flooding.
2. Prayer withstands loss
Abbott also said that “Prayer works” and expressed hope that God would provide comfort and strength to those affected and the first responders.
“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.” Psalm 40:1-3
Bono of U2 made a song called “40” out of these verses and closes concerts with it.
David Taylor interviewed Bono and asked him what he learned about God in the middle of loss.
“He listens,” replied Bono.
Then he asked him what one thing he had learned about himself from his life’s losses.
“I don’t listen enough.”
Taylor asks Bono one more question. “What is one difficult thing that God requires?”
“Honesty,” the singer replied.
Being honest about your loss, pain, anger, and disappointment can open a channel of wisdom, insight, and communication with God.
I know. I have suffered many losses and much pain, which is why I write about the hope and recovery I have discovered in this blog.
3. Simplicity overcomes loss
Significant physical, emotional, or financial losses deliver crushing disappointment.
However, they can also introduce healing changes.
One of those changes is simplicity.
The older I get, the more dignity, elegance, and power I see in simplicity.
I am discovering that truly deep folks have the genius of being simple.
Simplicity doesn’t mean easy solutions or easy to understand.
Simple means there are no hidden or double meanings.
4. Land safely
Whatever your storm is at the moment, tap into the highest power.
“The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd.” Ecclesiates 12:11
Land safely in three steps . . .
- Hold on to faith
- Be honest with God
- Keep everything simple
What are your storm survival tools?
So grateful, Steve, for this perspective. Thank you.
Inspired me to make my next post, “How Heaven Plays a Significant Role in Healing Your Losses.” Thank you Wayne.
Simplicity – So important…So hard to get there – Thanks Steve
Your encouragement helps a lot Jeff!