Life happens. As much as we may try otherwise, we can’t control or predict it even with the best of plans made. The current has a way of sweeping us along. Sometimes the waters are calm and still, endowing us with a sense of peace. Rested, rejuvenated, there is a delight in all we see and experience. Masters of our own fate, feeling like the world is our oyster. Life is pleasant, and we bob along contentedly. But then…
… reality hits! Caught up in unforeseen swirls of difficult times or troubles, the current suddenly becomes too fast to comfortably keep up with. We find ourselves amidst a circumstance of struggle, and thrash about in an attempt not to flounder. The water deepens, and a sure foothold cannot be gained. The riverbank, too far out of reach to grab for and hold onto. It becomes a challenge to navigate these rapids sweeping us along.
In such instances, wisdom dictates we go with the flow. Swimming with the current, rather than fighting against it. The better to conserve much needed strength and energy, so as not to become overwhelmed or swept away. At some point further along… the rush of water will slow, difficulties ebb, troubles diminish to manageable levels, and we can once again regain a sure footing.
It requires tenacity to endure whatever is sweeping us beyond our comfort level, and hence persevere until a calmer clime presents. Resilience to accept that which we cannot for the moment change. And courage to see the situation through to its natural conclusion, whatever that may be. Life is not under our control.
However paradoxically, ‘Let Go and Let God’ becomes the only way to regain any semblance of said control. We must rest in Him, and that is not our natural inclination.
So, the question becomes… how do we do this?
Strength of an inner kind and a firm resolution will help, but sometimes the circumstance calls for more. Navigating those seething white-waters of the rapids breaking over our heads requires faith. A belief in the assurance that we are not alone in the struggle during those seemingly overwhelming life experiences.
It is a given, that the current cannot sustain the breaking of such white-water rapids for any great length of time. Eventually the stream has to slow down to its previously normal level of flow. Nature understands the need to maintain a balance overall. Similarly, neither can life sustain the troubles or whatever difficulties are at hand. For it too, must maintain a certain equilibrium. At some point along the way, life will return to a more acceptable and comfortable mode. Nature and life mirror each other, and are closely entwined.
There is a saying… trouble never leaves us where it finds us. We are moved further down the riverbank, as it were. And while the landscape may only faintly resemble that which we once knew, or were accustomed to; this may not be such a bad thing.
Just because the scenery of our life has been changed as a result, is not to say it is an unwelcome situation. We may find something new, be it in circumstance or outlook, which is for the better… and to our benefit. He works all to our good, whether we can see it at the time or no.
The strength and tenacity required to shoot the rapids endows us with a resiliency which will serve well, as we continue to journey the ever-changing streams and challenges life presents.
Scottish minister, Oswald Chambers preached…
“God does not give us overcoming life;
He gives us life as we overcome…”
The strain is the strength. And the strength is of God.
This is the assurance… that we may lean on Him, and draw upon His strength as our own.
The minute you feel the strain… you get the strength. He is there to lift and uphold. You are never truly alone amidst adversity… or at any other time either.
“Fear not… 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…
Do not be afraid, for I AM with you.”
(Is: 3-5)
Take your comfort from this.
Trust… and be at peace.
8 thoughts on “Strength”
Beautiful! Every word and every image! Thank you.
The feedback is appreciated! Let go and let God takes a lot of practice and a great deal of trust. Something we have to keep working on. God bless!
I am waiting to hear results from my neurosurgeon. Whether I will remain in pain or whether something can be done to alleviate it. If surgery is needed, what kind & how extensive? It’s easy to panic when one doesn’t know. You are so right that our strength & hope come from God! I know from past experience that I can cling to Him & all will be well! This was a timely message & a blessed reminder for me, Bev! Thank you!
I hope that your test results can offer some encouragement for your health situation going forward. All we can do is the best we can… and put the rest in His Hands. The Bible assures us His Love never fails… our strength might… but ‘He gives his Angels charge over us’, we may trip – but we will not fall because ‘underneath are the Everlasting Arms’. You are in my prayers!!!
Thank you, Bev! I got the results, but they were unexpected & inconclusive. This is still a work in progress, but I am now in touch with a doctor who seems inclined to help &, as we know, God is faithful, regardless of circumstance!
God walks beside you… and there WILL be an answer to the pain and discomfort. Keep having faith Barb. We also are walking this trying time with you so you will not be alone!
Thank you so much, Bev! I had the blessing of visiting 3 people just our age on my recent trip. Yes, I am having a problem with arthritis, but I found that at least part of the problem is simply being 70 years old. Perspective!
And the love and support of good friends who are also in the over 70 Club!!!
Take care my friend!!
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