Lessons From The Raft

By Peter Lundell

Recently I went whitewater rafting with my friend Ronnie. Our group of seven shoved into the river for what became a living parable of life.

Though we wore helmets and lifejackets, nothing kept us in the raft but our feet jammed into the toeholds. In life, we can get all the insurance and security we want, but whether we avoid danger or disaster is partly out of our control in the churning world through which we travel.

At one point the raft went vertical on its side and all but one of us fell out. In life, from beginners to experts, we all get thrown for tizzies. And when we do, it’s critical that we look out for each other and help each other get back in the boat.

As in life, rough spots might scare you to death. Then you discover that you actually survive them. And when you do, you feel fulfilled—far more than if you hadn’t gone through them.

There is nothing you can do to prevent getting splashed—or blasted. That is the nature of heavy rapids. In life, you can’t avoid getting blasted with challenges and discomfort. You just have to be prepared.

Later in the trip, the one person who had not previously fallen out of the raft bounced out in another rough spot. In life, you may be spared while others suffer, but just wait; no one is exempt.

As in life, when the trip is done, some might say, “That’s enough. No more.” But others will say, “Let’s do it again!”

Whatever your journey, God says throughout Scripture, “Fear not, for I am with you.” May your journey always find God’s hand beneath your boat. And may the adventures on your journey be worth doing again.

PRAYER: O God! Some days I go through rapids. Help me to know that You are always with me in my boat—and that You will pull me back in when I fall out. Help me to love the journey, and to grow close to You in every rough spot.

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you! Don’t be frightened, for I am your God! I strengthen you—yes, I help you—yes, I uphold you with my saving right hand!” Isaiah 41:10 NET.

Today’s devotion is by Peter Lundell, author of Prayer Power. A rising new voice on connecting with God, he is a pastor, Bible college teacher, and conference speaker. Visit him at www.PeterLundell.com for his inspirational “Connections” and free downloads of articles, parables, short stories, and book chapters.