Rough Waters

This old and beautiful painting that I pass by every day, took on a whole different meaning one particular afternoon. I felt as if God was showing me a picture of his faithfulness, despite feeling like I was in rough waters.

The month of January felt like one where I was tossed and thrown in those waves in the painting. Yes, I was proud that I moved out in faith beyond the calm shallow water of my comfort zone, but in this season of growth, there was a lot of treading and energy being exhausted just to keep my ahead above water.

But God reminded me through this painting on this particular day, that beyond the crashing waves, the water was calmer. I had to keep going a little further out and if I could, there would be some relief there.

He showed me in this painting that beyond the rough waters I felt like I was drowning in, He was above it all and I caught a glimpse that there was hope on the horizon. His light above it all not only shone on the line where the sky met the sea, but it was shimmering and reflecting throughout the waters. Even on the waves…His light was there.

You see, when a wave knocks us down in life, it seems like it’s wave after wave that keeps on hitting us. But that’s just how waves in the ocean come…in succession one after another. In sets.

But there are breaks between the sets and as long as we keep our eyes focused toward the steady horizon, on His unwavering Word and promises, we can find a little rest and regain some strength to get a little further out before the next set comes.

Are you still afraid and on the shore? Or are you treading to keep afloat while being pounded wave after wave?

Wherever you are, look out beyond the rough waters and find peace by piece in the moments when you can fix your eyes on the horizon, notice the shimmer of light around you, and know that that is the constant promises and presence of our faithful God.

“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.” -Isaiah 43:2