HEBREWS 12:2
The first time I went whitewater rafting I was really scared. The guide gave us some simple hand signals so that we would know what to do. When we came to the heavy rapids, another guide was supposed to be on a rock giving hand signals and trying to get us through safely. The key to staying afloat was to keep your eyes on the guides and follow their directions. If you tried to navigate by yourself, your boat would flip over and you would be in trouble. Just like I had to rely on the guide and trust him so my boat wouldn’t flip, last summer I had to rely on Jesus to survive while away from home, alone on a mission trip to the Czech Republic. I was extremely homesick because my friends, were home and about to start soccer camp without me. I wanted to hop on a plane and be home in time for camp, but I couldn’t. I was there for a purpose and I had to stay and finish it. I didn’t just wake up one morning and feel better … it took time. With encouragement from my dad, daily devotions, and prayer, I overcame my homesickness. I was challenged just like whitewater rafting is challenging, but by keeping focused on Jesus, I got through the rapids and had a spectacular experience. When you’re going through hard times, focus on Jesus, and you will have Him as your personal guide through the rapids that challenge you daily.
Jessica Lord, 17, Houghton Christian Academy, Houghton, NY
Keep my eyes on You, dear Jesus,
so that You can guide me through.