Last week I got to take my kids swimming in a "big pool", one that gets over their heads. We have been working with them to learn how to swim and it has been so much fun. They are learning so quickly and are so eager to try new things! The one thing that slows things down is trust.
When I hold them up in the water, I try to hold them as little as possible so that they learn to float or swim without me. So I have them lay and I put my arm under them. What I want is for them to relax, know that I have them and do what they need to do without fear of drowning. What happens is they cling on to me so tight that they couldn't swim or float if they wanted to. I say "Trust me, I won't let you get hurt." But they refuse to listen. I'm their mom. What am I going to do watch them as they drown when there is something I can do about it? NO WAY!! I will hold them up! I may let them go under a little every now and then, but I won't harm them. I may let them be a little afraid so that they know the power of water, but I won't let them be overcome by the water.
Our Father in heaven is just like that. He wants us to relax in his arms, knowing that He is in control and will never let us drown. He may let us go under water every now and than, but he won't let us come to ultimate ruin. He may let us be afraid, but it is so that we learn the power of the enemy. If we cling too tightly, we will never know what we can do with Him behind us. We will be content to be safe in his arms. The problem is that when we step into the water with Jesus, He doesn't ask us to be safe! He asks us to take on the world! Just as it is exhilarating to know you have successfully swum by yourself for the first time, it is wonderful to know that you have stepped out in God's power to do his work and you haven't drowned yet. :)
So, relax. He's got you close. Trust Him, He won't let you down.
