I’m generally a happy, joy-filled person. I try not to put voice to my complaints. But it’s easier to control the tongue than the mind. My words either confirm the negative thoughts or rage a new battle: renew the mind with the thoughts of Christ.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12: 2
This morning I knew that a gloomy cloud hung near. This week and last held news that were heavy burdens for me to carry, a precious friend struggling with cancer, mounting financial concerns for many around us and surprise bumps in our own lives. I sat quietly, disappointed at my own discouragement. I could feel myself succumbing to despair. Wanting to put words to my feelings, I said out loud, “I just feel as though someone has let the air out of my sails.” Ever felt that way?
I pictured myself in a little sailboat, floating along when suddenly my craft came to a halt. You’ve heard the expression “dead in the water.” That was me.
Why do I need to go from sailing along to stillness…not a breeze in sight …and no where near the shore? Isn’t that abrupt? But life is like that sometimes.
I’m seasoned enough to know when a lesson is coming so instead of complaining, I began listening. Then I heard it: “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 Not just “Know that I am God….but BE STILL and know that I am God. Notice the command? It wasn’t a suggestion…not even a strong suggestion, rather a command to obey! I would have missed that had my sailboat gone sailing along on its happy-go-lucky way.
It’s all right when the winds die down and your seaworthy vessel sits idle on a beautiful clear day or even amongst threatening gray clouds. When you’re caught in the stillness of life, remember that He is God. Put Him at the helm of your life so that when the breeze picks up again, be it a gentle breeze or a gusty gale, you’ve reevaluated Who mans the vessel you’re traveling in.
My friend will still do battle against the cancer, many I care about will still struggle with finances, and I’ll have my share of stormy days, but thankfully I’m seaworthy again because my thoughts are focused on a truth: He is GOD.
I’m in no hurry for my sails to fill now. I’m comfortable where I am … in the stillness with Him.
About Jan Nellis
Jan Nellis is a happily married mom of five children, three of whom are still at home. She spends her free time rediscovering the lost domestic arts with an emphasis on health issues. An avid quilter, crocheter, hand-spinner and cook, her desire is to rekindle the ways of her grandmothers, blessing her friends and family. She has spoken at women’s groups on forgiveness, following God's plan for your life and the joys of living with God. She currently blogs at www.atinylittleripple.blogspot.com.
