Turbulence In Life: A Personal Confession!
Luke 8
KJV
23 But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy.
Every life is like a boat sailing on a turbulent sea. Depending on which part of the world you live in, the storms may be strong or mild, but they are storms.
From the above scene, we need to understand that though we have the Lord with, and on our side, we shall not be spared the effects of the storms of life! As Christians, we are not immune to the hardships and frustrations associated with life
The disciples we are told “ were in jeopardy “ the same we experience in the face of “storms” But what does it mean to be in “ jeopardy?” It means “to be at risk or threatened with serious harm, death, or damage”
It is a state or condition that creates anxiety, hopelessness and helplessness; have you not ever experienced this before? Oh, I have on many occasions! Read my confessions!!
Beloved, this brings to mind the question posed by the hymn writer “Will your anchor hold in the storms of life ?” Hear Him;
“Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain, will your anchor drift, or firm remain?”
Oh yes, there have been times when my “anchor of faith” in friends failed me at the most critical moments! When the strong tides of disappointments and frustrations lifted and my emotions were low, I needed just a touch of Hope and a pat on the shoulder! There my “ anchors “ failed me.
Anchor here can be anything you trust and believe can deliver you in times of distress. It could be friends, family, church members, colleagues at work, children, husband or wife etc..
Yes, on many occasions my anchor of faith in friends has come under stress when the clouds of mistrust unfolded themselves and engulfed me. When lies and falsehood are peddled freely like toffee! Trusted friends ( anchors!) deserted me! Yes!
Hope was gone and I was nearly swept away. There was none to hold on to, the majority of my “anchors” failed to hold me in check and balance. Yes, this is a reality in life so watch and pray. Re-examine your anchors from time to time to be sure they will hold in time of need.
In my case, it was then that a small circle of trusted friends ( anchors) took me in, extended a rope to pull me in from the brink of woe and disaster, an act similar to how Jesus calmed and stilled the storm!
Yes, beloved there will be storms in our lives, our anchors shall be stretched beyond limits; some will fail to drop into the ocean of pain; but on these turbulent waves always remember how Jesus spoke and it became quiet.
Trust in Him fully and the storms will pass. He is the only genuine anchor you can trust. A tried and tested anchor.
My confessions! A word to the wise.