LORD, TAKE ME INTO THE DEEP WATERS

"While there is undoubtedly a level of uncertainty when we move from the comfort of the shore to the deep waters, here is what I know--there can also be great PEACE in the deep waters."

We've often heard prayers such as "Lord take me into the deep waters", "take me deeper than my feet could ever wonder" or "Lord take me into the unknown". While the heart behind those prayers comes from a good place, if we are honest, there is often great apprehension and even fear in those prayers that can prohibit us from moving forward as the Holy Spirit leads. While there is undoubtedly a level of uncertainty when we move from the comfort of the shore to the deep waters, here is what I know--there can also be great PEACE in the deep waters. I have recently committed to working out each morning before work and needless to say, I have been uncomfortable at times and extremely sore more times than not. I have often found myself wishing for a pool or even a hot tub just to sit in. The reason being, because when you are fully immersed in the water, the pressure that is on your body is removed and for those few minutes of floating in the water, there is great comfort and peace. Throughout scripture the Holy Spirit is often symbolized by water. Yes, there can be uncertainty and fear when we step into the unknown, or deep waters. However, when we follow the prompting and guidance of the Holy Spirit and we allow ourself to be fully immersed in waters as deep as the sea, we can experience His peace like a river flowing through us. Looking back at different seasons of my life, the times where I have been the least lovable, patient and gentle example of a husband and father, were the times where I procrastinated when feeling the nudging of the Holy Spirit--and for a myriad of excuses didn't allow myself to be thrust into the deep waters trusting that His peace would crash over me like a tidal wave. When we are walking in lockstep with the Lord, at the center of His will, then we are able to walk daily with an internal peace that allows to be the husband/wife and parent that he has called us to be. What is the Lord calling you to do? What has he placed on your heart that you have been resisting? How is the Lord challenging you to love your spouse in an area that you may have shut off for years? Allow the Lord to lead you into the deep waters and as you step out in obedience in these areas, if you will allow him, he will fill you with his peace--a peace that surpasses all understanding.