Rocking the boat

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Prov. 16:9

 Fear, and Faith even in the midst of it, have been a theme in my life lately.

 I am not sure why, because I am not consciously afraid of anything specific right now. At least, nothing new.

 But I do have several friends who are in situations that could cause fear in their lives. I think I have a tendency to take on the emotions of the people I love. Occasionally that makes me wish I loved fewer people... but only for a minute or two!

 A few nights ago I read Luke 8, a portion of which has the story of Jesus and His disciples crossing the sea of Galilee. Jesus falls asleep and a huge storm rolls in. While His disciples stress themselves out, He sleeps peacefully. Finally, when they can take it no longer, they remember to ask Him for help. He calms the storm and while they are busy looking at each other in shock He simply asks, "What happened to your faith?"

Sometimes it seems like He is down in the bottom of the boat for a really long time. Sometimes, when it finally does calm, the storm only calms for a moment. But He is always in the boat. And the storm is always in His hand.

 After reading Luke 8, then discussing it with Andy the next night, what story should appear in the children't Bible for C and Z's bedtime on the 3rd night?

 You guessed it!

 Obviously I am supposed to be learning something.

 So, I will do my best to have faith, even in the moments that seem very filled with rain. When the boat rocks, and waves roll, and the clouds are gray and ugly, I will make it my goal to never hear, "Where is your faith?"

 Perhaps the most important thing I can remember is to remember. Remember that He is in the boat. Remember that He wants me to "wake Him up" (ie: ask for His help). Remember that He can control absolutely anything. 'nuff said.

So, the storms are blowing. All around me. For many people that I love. All I can do is stand in the rain, hold on tight and together we will have faith.  He is letting it rain. And it makes me hurt for them. So much. But I know, they know, we know, that He is in the boat and in control.

 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

 I am sure you have storms too. Hold on tight.

 I recently bought "The Voice" New Testament. We won't talk about philosophy and proper translation, I just want to share a verse written in it's translation.

 "He consoles us as we endure the pain and hardship of life so that we may draw from His comfort and share it with others in their own struggles." 2 Cor 1:4

 He consoles. I draw from His comfort. I help others in their own struggles.

 Hang on tight. Ask for help. Don't give up.

 And send me an E-mail. Praying for others seems to be what God has called me to right now.

Many Blessings,