Stepping Out of the Boat

Gen 44:1-45:28, Matt 14:13-36, Psalm 18:37-50, Prov. 4:11-13

Our Proverb today is encouraging. “When you walk, your step will not be hampered; and if you run, you will not stumble.”  When we keep hold of instruction, we can run free.  We know from experience that this does not mean there will not be challenges or obstacles in our way.  But we can walk unhampered and run without stumbling because of inner-peace.

It’s the kind of peace that can withstand the darkness of night and waves battering the boat in the storms that life can bring.  But to walk in the way of wisdom requires the first step–that we have to step out of the boat.  Stepping out of the boat requires risk.  The reality is going to be that we are going to take our eyes of Jesus.  We will stumble and sometimes fall.  But there is someone there to catch us when we do. Reminded once again, when we hold on to this wisdom and hold on to instruction, we can begin to run again.

Consider Joseph in today’s reading.  Think of all the motivations for getting even with his brothers.  But what does he do instead?  Consider how this has freed Joseph to run rather than holding on to avenging his brothers wrongs.  If we want to walk on water, we have to get out of the boat.

Shalom,

Pastor Rob