"'Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.'" Joshua 1:9
Recently Lord’s Gym Ministry team partook in a team-building exercise: kayaking six miles on the Little Miami River. This was only my second time kayaking and it was my first-time riding solo in the kayak. Riding by myself was my decision and it was a big one for me, a non-swimming, inexperienced kayaker. The journey was amazing.
I chose riding solo because I wanted to put myself in a situation where I was completely reliant on God. Although my team was with me the “security” of having someone else in the same kayak was gone. I also wanted the opportunity steer in my own strength, or rather what I learned to be His strength.
It was smooth sailing. A lovely day, comfortable weather, calm waters… until things got a little rocky. About 40 minutes into floating, almost effortlessly, I found myself stuck. I was wedged between a few rocks that were hiding under those smooth waters.
At first, I was surprised, as often we are by hardships that come our way. How did I get here? After a moment’s pause, it made sense that there would be rocks under the water, after all this was a natural river. Why wouldn’t there be rocks below the surface? It’s like coming to the realization that we live in a fallen world where sin and hardships surround all of us at every turn.
Back to the rocks. I had to get loose. I kept thrusting my paddle into the water on my left, hoping to hoist myself up enough off the rocks for the quiet current to pull me back into motion. Despite the use of all my strength, my plan was not working.
I was starting to panic. I was getting frustrated. How will I get off these rocks? I must look like a weakling. I kept thrashing the paddle down on that left side. The kayak was not budging. I was beginning to regret that cookie time I had shared with my son the night before. A little less weight and maybe my efforts would be fruitful. I kept pushing the paddle into the rocks and sand on the left side. The kayak stayed put.
Suddenly it became clear. I needed to pray. I rested my arms and asked God to get me off these rocks. “The other side,” I heard deep within my conscious. One of my teammates nearby yelled to me to try the other side too. Confirmation. I needed to try the other side.
So, with all my might, I again shoved my paddle down into the rocks and sand, this time on the right side. Within a few seconds I was free.
I got stuck two more times. I prayed. Remained calm and tried different methods and always became free. A few of my teammates had their fair share of rock time along the way too. Two even tumbled out of their kayak. Thank the Lord they were safe and did what we all have to do in life, climb back aboard and keep going.
My experience taught me that I can’t rely on my own strength. I need God. I need to take time, even in the midst of busyness and trouble, to go to Him. He has the right answers. Always.