When You Pass Through the Water

“Mom. Mom. MOM. Why do I have to get back in the boat?!” It was our first float trip, and the parents fielded this question dozens of times. “Because the river changes quickly, and we don’t want anyone to drown”, eventually gave way to “BECAUSE I SAID SO. NOW BACK IN THE BOAT!”

There came a moment where the river was stronger than expected for one of the children and she learned that when Mom or Dad or one of the other adults said it wasn’t safe to swim, they had a good reason. We were always scanning what was ahead and anticipating possible danger because that’s what parents do. We didn’t expect the kids to do this, because they are children, and that’s not their role. They only needed to trust our judgement and quickly obey when we gave them instructions.

Philippians 4:4-8 is full of imperative statements, or commands. “Rejoice in the Lord always.” “Let your graciousness be known to everyone.” “Do not be anxious about anything.” Do you want the peace of God that comes from the God of peace? Paul says “do these things”. But like petulant children, we don’t want to. Instead we question God’s judgement and goodness based on our very limited vantage point.

I didn’t want my kids to be anxious on the river. I love them and wanted them to know I was watching over them. Our Father doesn’t want us to live lives filled with anxiety either. We are His children and He is watching over us with loving care. We can have peace in every circumstance when we trust in His provision, protection and presence, and obey His commands.

When we doubt, when our hearts are anxious as they inevitably will be, we aren’t meant to find a solution on our own or to remain bound up in fear. Instead, remember that you are a child, and go to your Father. In everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, take your requests to your Dad. He may not give us what we want, but He does promise this: “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

The God of peace is with us. May we find peace in Him.

Natalie