Floating

Many of my favorite memories have involved floating. Whether in a canoe, a kayak, a fishing boat or on an inflated tire tube, there is just something restful about moving slowly and leisurely with the current, the sound of lapping water all around me.

Recently God has been impressing me with this image of floating, when it comes to my daily life, that he wants me to rest on the “water” of his love and care instead of always paddling furiously to get somewhere or accomplish something, which is often anxiety-producing for me.

“Going with the flow” is a choice for me, each day, especially if I choose to float on God’s river of gladness, which flows from his holy dwelling place! Choosing to trust in God’s plan and direction for me also impacts how I relate to family and friends each day. As I allow God to bless me, I am much more able to be a source of God’s “river of gladness” in the lives of others.

Our culture encourages us to be competitive, to accomplish more, to be a superstar in all that we do and say. This way of thinking impacts the church culture, as well, where what we do may receive more applause than who we are in Christ. But if I do not serve with joy and gladness, out of God’s Spirit flowing through me, my cup is empty at the end of a Sunday, and I feel discouraged!

In this New Year, are you floating on God’s river of gladness or paddling furiously to get somewhere? It’s your choice. I choose floating! Come and join me!

Father God, thank you for this river of gladness that flows from you! Help me to relax and float on the knowledge that you are with me, and will take me where you want me to go, if I just trust you. Amen.

For Today: whenever you find yourself stressing today, ask God to help you float on his river of gladness. Release any anxiety and cast all of your cares on him, because he cares about you! (I Peter 5:7)