God, My Refuge Amid The Firestorm

by Bermie Dizon

January 7, 2025, is a day I will never forget—the day a firestorm tore through our city, Altadena, California.

It was a night of terror, chaos, and uncertainty. Yet, amid it all, I was reminded of a greater truth: God’s promises remain unshaken even when the world around us burns.

A firestorm is an extreme type of wildfire, fueled by high temperatures, dry conditions, and fierce winds. It creates its own wind system, feeding the flames and intensifying their power.

Winds can reach hurricane speeds, spreading embers that ignite new fires far ahead of the main blaze. Firestorms are as unpredictable as they are devastating, consuming everything in their path and leaving behind a trail of destruction.

In the Philippines, my wife and I have experienced an earthquake that brought down buildings, a volcano that buried our family house, burglaries, a revolution in our native country, and now a firestorm that somehow felt more scary.

I remember fleeing that night with my wife and those who stayed in our house – as the winds howled through Eaton Canyon at over 90 miles per hour. So strong was the wind and it brought with it deadly fire.

Trees lay toppled, debris filled the air, and the acrid smell of smoke burned our lungs. The darkness was illuminated by embers that flew in the wind like fireflies—but these carried dangers, not wonder.

As we fought against the roaring winds to reach our car, we prayed fervently. The uncertainty of whether our home would survive hung heavy in our hearts for the days we were evacuated at  – David and Holli’s house in Burbank.

By God’s grace, we escaped unharmed, and our home was spared. Yet the devastation around us was heartbreaking. Friends lost their homes, cherished belongings, and memories. The town we loved lay in ruins.

In the chaos of that moment, I found myself asking a question I had asked many times before: “Where are You, Jesus?”

The truth is, He was there. Jesus was present in the strength that carried us forward, in the wisdom that guided our steps, in the love of those who gave us refuge, and in the peace that eventually settled over us.

The firestorm was a vivid reminder of life’s fragility. It showed me once again that our earthly possessions, as valuable as they may seem, are temporary. What endures is our faith and the unshakable promise of God’s presence.

Isaiah 43:2 assures us that even when we walk through the rough fire, we will not be burned. This does not mean life will be free from hardship.

The flames may rise, and the winds may roar, but God’s promise is clear: “I will be with you.” He doesn’t promise to eliminate every storm, but He does promise to carry us through them.

That night, as Altadena burned, I learned to trust God in a deeper way. I learned that even when the outcome is uncertain, God’s presence is certain. And His presence is enough.

I also saw the strength and resilience of my wife as we passed through this turmoil.

Life will bring storms—both literal and metaphorical—that threaten to overwhelm us. Yet as believers, we know we are never alone. Jesus walks with us through the fire, shielding our souls and refining our faith.

His love is a fortress, unshaken by the fiercest winds or the hottest flames. This fact was so evident with hundreds of friends and people I don’t even know sending encouragement and offering up prayers. We read each message. Each was very comforting and uplifting and I thank God for them all.

Prayer Prompt:

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge in the storms of life. When we feel overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, remind us of Your faithful presence. Teach us to trust You more deeply and to rest in Your promises. Help us to see life’s challenges as opportunities to grow in faith and to glorify You. Amen.

BERMIE DIZON is a retired pastor of Grace Communion International (GCI), Glendora, CA and a former writer for USA Tribune for nine years. He is also the author of the book “God, In Every Step” which is now available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other outlets.

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