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Are You Afraid to Get Out of the Boat?
by Nancy Quinn I admit it. I'm a little afraid of the ocean. Being from Iowa, I'm used to lakes, ponds and creeks. And there are no sharks, or stinging jelly fish in any of them! The most dangerous water creature I came across was a crayfish that tried to pinch my toe. After moving out to the East Coast, I was thrilled to see the ocean for the first time. The beauty of the water is breathtaking and I love to walk along the shore collecting seashells and wading into the shockingly cold water as the waves wash over my feet. However, I'm totally content to just wade in knee-depth. Hey, I remember the movie "Jaws" and I'm not taking any chances! While I may never totally get over my fear of the creatures in the ocean, I want to jump in with both feet as I grow in my faith. I love the story where Peter wanted to get out of the boat and walk out onto the water to the Lord. But when he was on the water and the winds started to blow, he became afraid. He allowed his faith and confidence to waiver, and started to sink. The Lord immediately reached out to save him from sinking. How many times has the Lord reached out and held my hand to keep me from falling? It's a beautiful vision to me that the Lord holds me and keeps me from falling. And just like he reached out to lift Peter up from the water, be reassured that he will reach out and keep us from falling too. So I encourage you to get out of the boat (your comfort zone) and be brave and courageous in your faith. Knowing that the Lord's arms are reaching out for you to uphold you, you can stretch your faith and make a difference in this world with his help! Don't worry, you won't fall or "sink". He loves you with an everlasting and eternal love. Psalm 55:22 "Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall." Matthew 14:30-32 "Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down." May God bless these words as I strive to encourage others in their walk with Christ. Please contact me if you would like to request a specific lesson that Lucy Mouse can teach your children or if you would like a coloring page to be sent to match the story! Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |