As a figure of speech, rain frequently describes positive feelings of blessing. As an example of how we should love all men, Jesus directs our attention to the Father who consistently and impartially “sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” (Mt. 5:45). As one of the distinguishing marks of the Messianic age, Ezekiel says, “there shall be showers of blessing” (Eze. 34:26). Such a thought captured the attention of Daniel W. Whittle who, in 1883, penned the words of a hymn by that title. Rain is a wonderful blessing, especially following a long season of drought. For that reason alone, it is a fitting metaphor describing the blessings God pours out upon us on a daily basis.
On the other hand, rain is sometimes a suitable description of the sad times that everyone experiences in this life. Beloved American poet of the 19th century, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, is famous for having said, “Into each life some rain must fall.” As if to emphasize the point a bit further, he added, “Some days must be dark and dreary.” We often forget the benefits brought about only as a result of trying times. James writes, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2–4). Someday, we may look back at our rainy days as the time when we experienced our greatest spiritual growth.
We fight against the inevitable rain when, according to Longfellow, “The best thing to do when it is raining is to let it rain.” What can we do about it? Undue concern for things over which we have little or no control is a waste of time and adds nothing to our lives (Mt. 6:25, 34). Instead, we should embrace such seasons as opportunities to grow closer to the Lord. Or, at the very least, turn these matters over to the Lord in prayer. Before admonishing us to prayer and thanksgiving, the apostle Paul exhorts us, saying, “Be anxious for nothing…” (Ph. 4:6). Trust God. Cast your anxieties over to the One who cares for you (1 Pet. 5:7). Then, let it rain.
— Glen Elliott —