I’m Sunk

By Holly Culhane

A dear friend reached out by text late on a Saturday evening.  She had been formulating a sermon she was scheduled to deliver the next morning.  In her own words, she had spent “many hours of study” but still felt “something just isn’t right. Please pray I can hear the Spirit’s voice, or I’m sunk.”  

I could sense her discomfort and concern. Her desire was to preach the Word, to represent the Father well, to do what she believed she had been called to do … yet the answer to her disquiet illuded her. The next morning would come, and the congregation of a little church in the Poconos of Pennsylvania would expect a message.  She had done all she could do.  It was time to rest, wait, and trust the Good Shepherd for what was ahead. 

God often calls us to wait.  To trust Him beyond the borders of our experience, our comfort, and our humanity. To trust that while we wait, He is working. Growing us. Refining us. Deepening our faith.  

From the waiting, from the discomfort, comes confidence in the Provision of our Good, Great, and Chief Shepherd… 

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches,
which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 

And, as we demonstrate our faith in Him, we are given the assurance of His Protection and His Presence, that He will not let us sink… 

So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.
But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink.
Save me, Lord!” he shouted. 
Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him.
You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
Matthew 14:29b-31 

 Early the next morning, I received this update… “When am I ever going to learn?  Praise God from whom all blessings flow! It was great!” 

For he will conceal me there when troubles come; he will hide me in his sanctuary.
He will place me out of reach on a high rock.
Then I will hold my head high above my enemies who surround me.
At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy, singing and praising the Lord with music.
Psalm 27:5-6 

May your faith in our Good Shepherd – in His Provision, His Protection, and His Presence – also be strengthened today…