He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples. (Luke 8:24b-25, NIV)
A reference to those lost on maneuvers or patrol, the military slang “up a creek without a paddle” came into vogue in the late 1800s. The term generalized to encompass other situations, i.e., awkward positions; troubling circumstances; predicaments where a resolution is not readily available; a sudden, unexpected storm or problem.
If you’ve ever been in one of those uncomfortable spots, the above descriptions usher in a glimpse of its impact. That helpless, suffocating feeling. The moment you recognize you are literally up a creek without a paddle.
Three Gospels (Matt., Mark, and Luke) record a volatile experience we’d all rather avoid. Until Jesus comes on the scene.
Let’s back up a minute and set the stage.
By now, the disciples had witnessed Jesus’ love and power on many occasions. He healed the sick, provided food for their physical needs, and discerned unspoken thoughts. His compassion and care weren’t hidden from these men.
And the idea to cross the lake in a boat was nothing new to this group of mostly fishermen. Yet, when a storm arose, the winds howled, and their boat pitched and plummeted in the water, they considered the danger instead of the Diety with them. They allowed the size of the waves to eclipse the strength of their Savior.
Sound familiar?
Yet, God’s power isn’t concealed from us either.
How do we navigate the storms we’re currently encountering? We need a strong anchor. When we’re steadfast in Jesus, we can rest assured He’ll guide us by His Holy Spirit, power, and love through every challenge we might face. In our daily, active, growing relationship with Him, we know He’s inside and right beside us.
Unlike the canoe up the creek without a paddle, we are not lost. The blinding storm may obscure land on the other side of the lake, but we know He’s promised never to leave or forsake us. (Acts 2:21)
The words of this 1934 English chorus paint an appropriate picture:
With Christ In The Vessel,
We Can Smile At The Storm;
Smile At The Storm,
Smile At The Storm.
With Christ In The Vessel
We Can Smile At The Storm
As We Go Sailing Home
Sailing, Sailing Home,
Sailing, Sailing Home.
With Christ In The Vessel,
We Can Smile At The Storm;
As We Go Sailing Home.
Amen! We need to trust Christ and keep our eyes on Him, not on the waves. What a great song. Thanks for sharing!
He is all we need, ALWAYS!...Why do we ALWAYS take that so lightly....I know I do, and when I focus, on all the words you just wrote, I know with all my heart, yes....all I ever need is Jesus❤️ Thank you for your truth, and so thankful for your gift of putting in the right words to wake me up!🤗