Standing In Rough Waves

We are a beach loving family, we count down the days until we get to enjoy that beautiful big ocean.  I even love the feel of sand and don't mind the clean up that comes with it.

There are times when I leave the beach and venture into the water, sometimes it relaxes me, cools me off and provides joy.... but other times the waves change and I find myself unable to keep my balance.  When the water is rough it begins to take a toll on me, I try to stand but I am repeatably knocked over and under.  I struggle and fight to regain my balance and continue towards the safety of the beach in front of me but exhaustion begins to set in, I know that I have to dig deeper and find more strength to continue forward.

No matter how much I want to change the situation I can't because I can't change the force of the waves against me.  I know that I just have to keep fighting them off and get back up each time they tumble me over.  Eventually, I make it to the shore tired and out of breath.

But not once in my exhaustion do I ever curse the ocean or find myself any less in love with it and it's beauty.  My experience won't keep me from returning to the waves that took such a toll on me, even though I realize that it may once again knock me over and pull me under.

It may seem to make more sense to just never go back into the water so that I wouldn't have to endure that struggle ever again; but doing so would also cost me the opportunity to experience the joy that comes from something that I love so dearly.

Although I am hundreds of miles from the ocean I find myself feeling as if I am trying to stand in rough waves, battling my way back to the safety of the beach.  I know I will get there... but right now I am exhausted by the beating of water that I so dearly love.  I long for the rest that comes from the security of the dry land.

But despite it all I am no less in love with my life nor would I change it... I will continue to fight to keep my feet under me and my eyes focused forward on all that provides me strength and peace.

Isaiah 40:31  but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles;  they will run and not grow weary,  they will walk and not be faint.