Outdoor Truths

A few weeks ago, I got to spend a morning deep-sea fishing. I've only fi shed the ocean a few times and each time has either been in the coastal waters or within a few miles from the shore. This time was one of those times I was about three miles from the beach. My captain's guide service was one of the oldest there. And even though we didn't catch a lot, I trusted him and was very comfortable with his efforts to locate fish. As all guides, he constantly watched his screen to determine our chances. What I noticed was no matter how hard the waves came and how tossed the boat was, he kept his eyes on the thing that was consistent, stable, and dependable. Years ago, I left a position at a church to start a ministry to hunters and fishermen. During the process of leaving, I began to learn about faith. I noticed that God called men and women to do things that seemed unlikely, improbable, or impossible by the world's standard. The examples are many. He wanted them to do His will, His way, so people would know God was at work. God's way might be difficult or even illogical, but if his person would keep focusing on God and not the circumstances, he would live in peace and confidence. We have a perfect example when Peter asked Jesus if he could step out of the boat and walk on the water. Jesus said yes, and Peter walked until he began to look at the waves. He then began to sink. Jesus never scolded his attempt, only his faith. "Why did you doubt?" Jesus asked. Jesus already knew. It was Peter who needed to assess the reason. I remember in my own journey, a sinking episode. I had become discouraged about God's seeming lack of provision. In so many words, God ask me the same question He asked Peter. "Gary, why are you doubting?" He knew. It was me who needed to realize I had taken my eyes off the One who was dependable, stable, and consistent. And the one who had called me out of the boat. Sometimes the waves in our life are by our asking. Sometimes, they are forced upon us. Regardless, they are always under the control of our Captain. Our world, today, is troubled. Many are struggling with uncertainty, doubt, discouragement, and fear. Let me humbly and gently remind you, while these waves might be bigger than the boat you're in, they are under the feet of the One who promised you His care and presence. What you see as something meant to crush you, He sees as something meant for you to walk on. And once you take one step on the water, you'll never be satisfied back in the boat again.