I’m Right Here
I recently vacationed in Kauai, Hawaii. While there, my husband and I went on a snorkeling boat trip. Now, what you may not know about me is that I’m not a water person. I don’t mind going on boat trips, but I stay on the boat. I don’t get in the water. So really, this was my husband’s snorkeling trip and a boating day for me. He loves the water and seeing all the fish and other sea creatures in it. I love taking pictures and reading. So while he’s snorkeling, I have time to do those things I love.
On this particular trip, there was a family with young adult daughters on board. The mom and dad were in the water like fish, ready to snorkel. The one daughter, probably in her late teens or early twenties, seemed to want to get in the water, but was nervous about it. Her dad was so patient with her, using what I imagined was the same gentle voice he used to soothe her fears when she was a baby.
Dad: “You don’t have to go out far.”
Daughter: “I’m scared.”
Dad: “You can stay with me.”
Daughter: “Can I just swim on you?”
Dad: “Not on me. But right beside me.”
Daughter looks uncertain.
Dad: “I’m right here. I won’t leave you.”
She decided to try it—all based on her trust in her father. She sat for a long time on the step of the boat and let the freezing water wash over her. It’s as far as she got. Shivering, she went back into the boat.
But it was still the sweetest thing I’ve seen in a long time. Obviously, this dad had built a relationship with his daughter through the years that led her to trust him in this scary situation.
I wonder if I’m like this at times, as God encourages me from above. I’m afraid to try something new and He’s nudging, prodding, moving in my heart whispering, “You can do it. I’m right here. I won’t leave you.”
My natural inclination is to stay in a place that’s familiar and safe. But God stretches me to new heights, new ministries, new relationships. When I trust Him, I’m never disappointed. Maybe I turn back sooner than I should. But even when I sit on the step, He’s there, encouraging me, praising me for giving it a try. Even baby steps (like step sitting) are the beginning of what could be significant growth. And it’s all good because I’m with my Father. There’s no shaming, no condemnation because I didn’t do more.
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). You are enough, just as you are, where you are, growing at a snail’s pace or by leaps and bounds.
What adventure is God calling you to? Share it in the comments below and rest assured God is with you and will never leave you.
What a meaningful post! Although the water looks so lovely, I must admit that I, too, prefer to look and not dive in. I pray that is not the case in opportunities that God gives me for outreach.
The analogy of the young daughter on the edge of the boat is so real to me. God understands our hesitancy, but what a comfort to know He is always there to encourage, protect, and guide.
Thank you for this post, Linda.
Excellent illustration of God’s abiding encouragement for us. I must admit, I would opt to stay in the boat. Deep waters frighten me. Like Carol, I pray I won’t miss an opportunity when God calls me into deep waters.
Deep waters frighten me, too, Dawn. My husband and I have gone on sunset cruises at times while on vacation and the inky, black water far out into the ocean almost panicked me. I just had to not think about it. Trusting Him to help me with my fears about deep waters, both literal and spiritual. Thanks for commenting!
Thank you, Carol. I give that girl credit for even sitting on the step in that cold, cold water! That’s so not me. Yes, I pray I dive in to opportunities God brings, having full confidence in Him. Thanks for your comment.
I loved reading this wonderful post, Linda! The picture is beautiful and your words were powerful. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Crystal. Blessings!
I love this post, Linda. Thanks for sharing. And what a wonderful trip you must have had!
Thanks, Jean. Yes, it was wonderful. The best part was that we took my 82-yr-old mom with us. She and Dad always dreamed of going to Hawaii. They never made it there together before he died 10 years ago, but we said there’s no reason she still can’t go. It was a dream come true for her. And a huge blessing for us to be a part of it.
Ahh how I’ve wallowed in that “no condemnation” scripture. He may prod and encourage, but He won’t condemn.
Very true, Pam. We’re more likely to be hard on ourselves than God. Thanks for reading and commenting.
What a beautiful, touching post. Thank you for sharing! I’m so glad God doesn’t condemn me for my baby steps.
He’s such a good God, isn’t He, Bonnie. Thanks for your sweet comment.
What a lovely post Linda! Thanks for sharing that sweet story of the dad and his daughter.
I also am not a deep water person, preferring to stay and splash about in the shallows. In the spiritual realm, I’m also tempted to stay where it’s safe, but the times I’ve launched out into the deep, my Heavenly Father has kept His promise to be always with me. Isn’t it wonderful how gentle and patient He is with us?
Interestingly, safety doesn’t always equal the greatest fulfillment. I’m learning that very slowly! But yes, God is a gentle and patient teacher and I’m so thankful. May we all learn to be brave deep sea divers under His faithful guidance. Thanks for your comment.