Tag: drifting

I Was Drifting

God, Jesus, Inspiration, rescueLet me start by saying that I am not a swimmer. I enjoy being in the water as long as my feet can touch a firm surface and my face doesn’t get wet.

Our vacation was nearing an end. I had walked along the shore daily but had not ventured into the sea. The conditions were perfect with sunshine, hot temperature and calm water and I knew I needed to make the most of the opportunity.

I waded into the refreshing water. Soon I felt adventurous enough to take hold of a small boogie board that was handed to me. My intention was not to ride it but to lie across it and float.

Balancing my body across this board without tipping was a much bigger challenge than I anticipated. When I achieved my goal I was filled with satisfaction.

I relaxed, laid my head on the board and closed my eyes. What a wonderful feeling! It seemed like only moments before I looked around and realized I had drifted quite a distance from my husband. The water was now deeper than I was comfortable with. My feet could no longer touch the bottom.

I hung on tightly to the board as I kicked my feet and fought back the panic. The tide seemed to be working against me and the shore was not getting any closer.

Then I saw my husband making his way towards me. He took hold of the cord attached to the board and towed me to safety. I was so relieved that I didn’t mind his admonishment that I should have been more attentive to my surroundings.

This was an example of what happens in my life when I drift along without paying attention. Soon I’m in over my head. The Lord is always there to rescue me. Sometimes he waits for me to call for help. Other times he sends someone to help me even before I realize I’m in trouble.

Drifting aimlessly is never going to get me where I want or need to be. The prudent thing for me to do is to be attuned to the wisdom only he can give. Then I will have clear direction and not drift off course.

The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice. (Proverbs 12:15 NIV)

It is the Lord who gives wisdom; from him come knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 2:6 GWT)

Boating

relax on boatA phone call came inviting us to go boating. It had been several years since I had been on a boat so was quite excited. We had to leave in just over an hour so quickly packed lunches, sunscreen and towels to prepare for our adventure.

Once on the lake we spent a little time exploring the area before the motor was cut and we drifted, relaxing in the warmth of the sun. The boat was not being steered and there was no anchor dropped to keep us in one spot. Since we were not close to any other boats it was calm and peaceful. When the wind changed and started tossing us about it became necessary to have someone take control again to keep us from being blown off course.

As usual, this made me think about life. While it may be pleasant to drift along for short periods of time, this is not going to get me to where I want or need to be. Every wave will toss me to and fro and I will have no direction. Even in the harbor I need to have an anchor to keep me steady. Jesus is that anchor. He guides me safely and keeps me secure. All that I need to do is pray and have faith. He will provide me with the wisdom that I need.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. James 1:5-6 NIV

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19 NIV

%d bloggers like this: