Rising Above The Clouds

During a turbulent flight to the Falklands, I found myself gripped by fear as the plane shook unpredictably. Amidst the turbulence, I remembered a friend’s warning about taking precautions to survive a possible crash into the Atlantic Ocean. Though I initially dismissed it, that seed of fear lingered in my mind. As I looked out the window, I was met with a startling sight—a dense, white wall of clouds surrounding the plane. This moment sparked deep reflection on the symbolism of clouds in scripture.

In the Bible, clouds often carry heavy meanings: they can represent judgment, calamity, gloom, obstacles, or the fleeting nature of human experience. For example, a “day of clouds” frequently symbolises divine judgment or disaster. Ezekiel 30:3, Joel 2:2. Clouds can also be an overwhelming approach of enemies, Ezekiel 38:9. Beyond these, clouds convey grief and obscurity of understanding, as seen in Job’s sorrow, Job 3:5.

A black cloud with winds may also signify an abundance of rain on the positive side, as noted in 1 Kings 18:45. However, in times of fear, people tend to remember only the calamities.  

Clouds may represent afflictions that can be numerous and uncertain. Still, one thing is sure: God will deliver us from them all, Psalm 34:19. Moreover, Philippians 1:6 reminds us that God, who began a good work in us, remains faithful to complete it. These truths assure us that God is always present, even when circumstances feel overwhelming.

The Pilots flew higher above the clouds. From this vantage point, the clouds looked small and distant, inspiring hope and reminding me of God’s promises. Yet, after about 45 minutes, a moment of relief and joy came. Psalm 91:14 encourages believers by promising God will lift them high above their trials, granting a broader perspective and strength to endure.

From this experience, I learnt several vital lessons:

• Listening to negativity can cloud our judgment and weaken our ability to assess situations.
• Challenges like the clouds are inevitable, and we must come to terms with that reality.
• Sometimes, these clouds are God’s way of elevating us; our willingness to obey and rise with Him influences how long we remain in difficult circumstances.
• Faith and complete trust in God are essential because He knows all things and is always capable of guiding us through to a place of safety above the clouds.

By embracing these truths and looking up to God in faith, regardless of the storm, we can overcome adversity and fulfil the purpose He has set for us without giving up.