Philippians 4:6-7 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Matthew 11:28-29 – Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
While we were out on a boat, crossing a part of the Gulf of Mexico, we experienced choppy, wind-blown waters. I noted that everywhere there were rails to reach out to, in order to maintain my balance, and remain steadfast and sure-footed as the boat rolled over the swells.
I took time to go below into our cabin, in the bow (front) of the boat, and I stretched out on the bed to rest. I thought I would read for a while, but it wasn't long until the book grew heavy, and I was fast asleep. The rocking of the boat had a peaceful motion that lulled me away.
Here we have two different experiences: one on deck, reaching out to retain my balance and stay upright; the other, below deck, finding rest and peace amidst the same choppy seas. On deck, I was open to all sorts of dangers: the wind, the wild elements, being washed overboard, losing a sense of security, and needing something to hang onto. While in the heart of the vessel, I experienced containment, protection from the elements, a sense of security, and a soothing sensation from the rocking of the boat
The lesson that came to my mind was that sometimes our security in God comes by reaching out to Him and holding onto Him for stability in turmoil. At other times our security in God comes by peacefully resting in Him, and knowing that, in the worst of storms, we can lean on Him and be held in His everlasting arms, the arms of a loving protector.
Romans 15:33 – The God of peace be with you all. Amen. (NIV)
Prayer: Lord God almighty, we surrender all to You, in the assurance of our steadfastness in You, through all that we must endure. May we find our rest in You, trusting in You alone, through Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen.
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