Here Comes the Waves
Last summer Mia and I bought a pair of stand-up paddle boards. When we took them out on the water for the first time, we had visions of a peaceful paddle on calm waters where we enjoyed the beauty of the lake while spending time together as a couple… We did not factor in the boats… We made it about 15 feet off the dock before we realized the miscalculation of our expectations. The waves made by all of the boats enjoying the lake made it close to impossible for me and Mia to do anything except tremble in fear of falling off the paddle board. This was all before we even attempted to stand up on the board. I worked up the courage to try and stand on the stand-up paddle board, and straight into the water I went. I was done.
How often do we find ourselves in situations where the waves ruin our expectations? It happens all the time. As Christians, we get this “perfect picture” in our heads of what our lives should look like. Whether it be in our jobs, families, finances, vacations, or something as simple as paddle boarding. Our high expectations can often be ruined by a few waves that hit at the wrong time. We need to shift our expectations from this “perfect picture” to THE PERFECT SAVIOR. Jesus lived a life full of waves and trials, yet he never faltered. Instead, he walked on them. If Jesus faced waves, then we should expect to face waves too. If we put our faith in Jesus, when the waves come, we can stand firm on the foundation of Christ.
Peter lays it out in 1 Peter 4:12-19:
“12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 19 So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”
Do not be caught off-guard by the waves of life. When the waves come, stand firm and continue to paddle praising God in every situation knowing that no wave can shake the foundation of Jesus.
- Justin Spickler -