Isaiah 43:1-2
But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel:“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
During this vicious storm we’re having, I got a call from my baby brother letting me know he was doing quite well: had the nerve to be sitting on his deck admiring the handiwork of God. Of course I was happy to hear that, but what he said next totally confused me. He affirmed he was safe, but to get to his safe place, he had to travel toward the eye of the storm instead of running from it. That’s what confused me. He was already a relatively safe distance from the center of the storm. Shouldn’t he have run the opposite direction? I’m just saying! But his answer cleared up all my misgivings.
The storm was going to hit the entire area no matter what direction he ran. He was in the city, where you might think they have it all together, but from experience he knew he was vulnerable and unprepared. But at the beach, though the storm was strong and formidable, he had all the creature comforts, and emergency apparatus he could ever need. And worst case scenario, he could always leave by boat. At that location he was prepared for the storm.
I jumped at the opportunity to tell you this story today because all week long the theme, Rising Tides Float All Boats, was in my head. With the week I had, I couldn’t for the life of me figure out what God was trying to tell me. And then the storm came. I got it now. It’s not the severity, location, duration or intensity of the storm that makes the difference. It’s your preparation for the storm that counts most.
The Bible is filled with scriptures alluding to the significance and transformative power of water. Water connotes the Spirit. Water is often used to indicate cleansing and refreshing. And of course for us New Testament Christians, it holds the highest regard as the method of baptism into our new life with Christ.
But water also has destructive, disruptive and devastating qualities as well. Sadly, we’ve experienced some of the horrific consequences of storms catching folk that just weren’t adequately prepared. But in the right circumstances, with enough buoyancy, balance, cover and cooperation, experienced folk can weather and withstand just about any storm that approaches. And not only survive the storm, but thrive because of the storm.
Anyone living in a dry and arid location can readily attest to the absolute and desperate need for water. Water is a necessity. Being without water for too long is a recipe for death. Just as important to our bodies as water is naturally, the water (anointing) is to our souls spiritually. We will soon die without it.
Dear Children of God, today’s scripture reminds us of the complete control God has over the affairs of those that love and trust Him. The promise of safety (whether fire or water) is a stark reminder of the absolute power and authority our God possesses. But never forget that there are conditions and requirements that accompany His protection. Our adherence to His way, will, and His Word are paramount in maintaining our readiness in times of storm. Remember, if you have the right apparatus, the tide will help you float higher than you ever floated before. But without it…
God bless
