“God Is With You Even in the Middle of the Storm”: Orlando Pastor Keeps His Mission

Orlando Pastor Keeps Going Because “God Is With You Even in the Midst of the Storm”

FLORIDA, ORLANDO Though Orlando is not located on Florida’s coast, it was nevertheless in the hurricane’s path and experienced devastating floods and high winds. A local preacher is giving hope to folks in the midst of life’s storms as the city starts to recover from the recent storm.

For almost a day now, this area has been subjected to roaring winds and pounding rain. It seems like the center of the hurricane has moved on, although strong gusts of wind and showers are still periodically occurring. Ian is not yet finished wreaking havoc, as it is moving into the central Atlantic.

The storm is moving out of the region, but tornado watches and flash flood warnings are still in effect for the next 24 hours.

Many retention ponds have been constructed in the Orlando region for just this kind of emergency, but they are now at capacity, so the water will have to find alternative outlets. As a result, the risk of flooding remains significant.

An Orlando-based pastor and the head of Nation’s Church agreed to talk to CBN News. He was in the dark without electricity, as is still most of Florida, and he told us of his worries for his mother, who didn’t leave in time because she assumed the worst of the hurricane would be 90 miles north. Our intentions were derailed by Hurricane Ian, though.

Pastor Russell Benson has been in touch with his mom and found that she is safe despite extensive damage to their home. Florida will get through this together and through the grace of God, the pastor said, as he announced intentions to conduct Sunday service for the people of Orlando.

“As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ — and the church of Jesus Christ — we have this incredible serenity that gives us the power during and after the storm,” Pastor Benson stated.

“Now, in the midst of this conversation, I want to assure you that God is with you. Whatever storm you’re weathering, whether it’s a literal one or a spiritual one, know that you’re not alone.”

There has been widespread destruction, and more will become apparent in the coming hours and days as Operation Blessing gets underway to aid those who have suffered the most.