An idea has my brain completely maxed out; so much so that writing something completely new became an impossibility. I ran across a post I called “Oceans” from February of 2015 that I like. I believe it deserves a fresh update and another opportunity to be shared. Join me below for a quick reminder of how feeling suddenly small can spark understanding of who we are in God.

From the Vault – Oceans – February 2015

Hubby Guy and I went on a cruise for our 10th anniversary. Cruising dominates our vacation plans anymore. With our frequency engaged in the sport, we developed some solid habits. Our favorite habit to practice involves hanging out on the back of the boat and watching the boat trail in the ocean water.

One evening, the Captain announced our heading, conditions, etc. We were more than 100 miles from land and the ocean depth reached depths of approximately 3 miles deep. The song Oceans by Hillsong United came to mind as I stood there and surveyed the horizon. The absolute vastness of what was before me pinged my soul.

The chorus of that song says:
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior

I am guilty of believing the lie that I’m small and can offer little –  that “Wherever You would call me”  extends only as far as my backyard. Something about our distance from land coupled with the depth of the water reminded me of how utterly powerless I am in my own strength.

I heard a podcast host speak about being poor in spirit. She made the point that until we understand how destitute we are, we can’t understand who God is and our need for Him. From the railing of that ocean liner, understanding sparked.

 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.  Matthew 5:3 (CSB)

The questions I ask in smallness, I also ask out of self-sufficiency. Do you pile up those questions too – what, where, how, why, and when? When we understand “Wherever You would call me” is a journey of faith to places we cannot go outside of His presence, we can begin to trust. The answers matter less than our willingness to trust Him for big things, even when we feel small.     

I found myself grateful all of a sudden, way out there in the ocean. I stood at that railing and listened to the wind, to the ocean, and I listened to the Holy Spirit reminding me simultaneously of my great need and His presence and provision. In that moment, I understood my smallness as an opportunity to take on His strength.

Where in your life do you recognize your need for God? What reminds you of His awesome power and provision? Think about these things this week. When life makes you feel small, check to see if you can identify the presence of your Savior.