MESSAGES
“. . . in Me you may have peace.
In the world you will have tribulation . . .”
—John 16:33 (NKJV)
A couple of years ago, my wife and I had the opportunity to go to Colorado. While there I was able to convince her to join me in a water rafting trip. It was a splash as we rapidly rode the roaring rapids. (say that fast 10 times)
Those level four and five rapids were anything but calm. Yet, everyone in our raft was at peace. Why? Because we had a guide in our raft that had been down those rapids himself many times. He knew where all the danger spots were. Therefore, we were safe as long as we allowed him to navigate for us. Had we tried to take over, it would have spelled disaster.
I’m reminded of when Jesus and His disciples were in a boat and about to cross over the Sea of Galilee. Prior to entering the raft, Jesus said to His disciples, “Let us cross over to the other side” (Mark 4). No sooner had they begun to cross over, a violent storm came upon them. As the rapids beat upon the boat, water began to fill it, and soon the disciples became very troubled. These men were frantic and panicking because they thought the fierce waters would destroy them.
Meanwhile, what was Jesus the navigator doing? He was taking a nap. Fearfully, the disciples called upon the Lord, shouting, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!” (Matthew 8). We then read that Jesus arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the rapids, “Peace, be still!” (Mark 4). The immediate result was, “. . . and the wind ceased and there was great calm.” The ultimate result was they made it safely to the other side.
If you feel as if lately you’ve been rapidly riding the roaring rapids of life, remember to allow the Lord to be your Navigator. If you think He might be asleep (which He never is) go ahead and call upon Him as the disciples did. As you do, He’ll turn those rapids into ripples, and get you safely to the other side.
Remember when experiencing the rapids of life that your peace comes from within the boat, not from without.
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you . . . let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”
—John 14:27 (NKJV)
Enjoy your rapids in peace,
Pastor / Chaplain Steve |
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| SHIELD OF FAITH |
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call (951) 687-6902
Attention Juanita
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