Scripture for Today: II Corinthians 1:21 “Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us…”

There is nothing more unsettling than a boat rocking!  I know from personal experience having taken a sailing class in my college years.  We were all “in the same boat” as novices and there were plenty of nail-biting moments.  The couple pictured here seem experienced and relaxed.  But certainly, the keel has a lot to do with keeping them stable.  That long piece of wood along the bottom of the boat is usually unseen but so important to balance.

Today’s verse is not so much about an object but a Person who helps us stand firmly, balanced and stable.  God does this for the believer.  He does this through our relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ.  But He also does this through His Spirit in our hearts (verse 22).  We bear the seal of His ownership and nothing can shake that!  His Spirit is a guarantee of what is to come.  Being convinced of this truth keeps the boat from rocking.  He keeps the boat from capsizing.

I need to be even keeled.  When I stand firm in my faith I can have that “quiet and gentle spirit” that God values (I Peter 3:4).  It is a matter of trusting Him and what He says.  His Word stands firm in the heavens (Psalm 119:89) and will make me to stand firm as well.  Changes may seem overwhelming and the next crisis daunting, but trusting Him keeps me firm and upright.  When my heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord, then there is no fear of bad news (Psalm 112:7).  Life will always seem unstable but He is not!

Lord, thank you for being my stability.  Keep me trusting You completely.