What kind of waters are you navigating?

The water was uncharacteristically calm, glistening under the noonday sun. The sunfish sailboat my boyfriend and now husband, Rob, paddled out into the middle of the lake sat stagnant. He had hoped to impress me with his sailing skills, but instead he cleated the sail and climbed onto the boat’s bow to sit next to me. Only then did we both see what would certainly change the trajectory of our day. 

From across the lake, the water began to swell, creating ripples. Quickly, Rob jumped up from his position next to me to untie the sail, but the wind reached us before he could. What should have taken us sailing smoothly across the lake toppled us into the frigid spring day waters. And in my naivety and panic, I grabbed onto the boat, which only worsened the situation. Instead of on its side, the boat completely capsized, with the sail now underwater. 

Isn’t this what happens in life?

We make a plan. We may even successfully shift gears when the day, weeks, months, or even years don’t go as expected. But sometimes, we can’t adjust fast enough, or the winds of life are too strong and our life (boat) flips. Regardless of the size of the interruption or the unwanted news, we lose all stability. Our mind starts to panic as we grasp for control, but in doing so we somehow manage to make things worse. 

Anyone else ever felt this way? 

You may even find yourself in a season of unsteadiness right now. If that’s true, I have good news. There are intentional choices and things that you can focus on that will help you when the waters of life feel unstable. 

Instead of panic and clinging to a semblance of control, we can focus on hope and surrender to the One who guides our life even through the storm. God may not always calm the storm, but He will always comfort and guide us through. So, if you find yourself in a storm today that threatens to flip your boat? Remember you are not in the storm alone. 

A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” 

John 6:18-20

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing stories of hope and tips for Living Intentionally and Focusing Eternally (L.I.F.E.) during seasons of challenge. We will help you build your L.I.F.E. boat for the days when the waters are rough. 

What’s the water like in your life? 

💧 Is it smooth sailing? If so, take time to praise God for the many blessings in your life today. Thank Him for rescuing you in seasons of unsteadiness in the past and spend time in His word so that you can prepare for whatever lies ahead. 

💧 Is the water stagnant? – Do you find yourself stuck or waiting on whatever is next? If so ask God to show you what the next right thing to do is? Expect Him to answer, and then be ready to obey. He knows the plans, so why not stop wondering or trying to make them on your own and ask Him instead. 

💧 Are you in a storm?  You are not alone. Read through John 6:16-24 or Matthew 8:23-27. Be reminded that Jesus cares about your situation and holds you in the storm. Things around us may feel shaky, but when we hold onto our Savior our hearts can be steady even in the storm. 

💧 We’d love to pray for you. Send us an email or a private message through socials, we’d love to pray for your situation and support you with some extra hope if you’re in a storm.