“Learning to Swim Against the Current”

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2 (ESV)

Getting Taken Out

When I was a teenager, I would babysit during the summers. I was asked to go with a family to the beach and help watch their children. As I was out enjoying the water. I was by myself riding the waves one afternoon, when I was pulled under by the undertow. As the wave took me out, I swam so hard trying to break through. I remember not giving up but continuing to swim in an upward angle. I felt like I was in slow motion. Swimming against the current to get back to the surface was exhausting and terrifying for me especially at such a young age.

Waves of Life

Just like my experience with the wave when I was a teenager, the waves of life and swimming against the current are just as beastly. Swimming against our daily currents can cause us to spiral. It takes our eyes off what is most important. We must stay in prayer and ask the Lord to swim with us. Only God knows what we all have been through and what we are currently going through.

A Reminder

I am going on my second week of the verse Romans 12:2 sticking with me. These words keep echoing in my mind daily. Why is this? I believe God is trying to remind me whenever I am “swimming against the current,” to tap the pause button and pray. Tapping the pause button and praying has come hourly for me lately.

Learning to Swim Against the Current

Taking the time to put this different approach into action has kept me from spiralling and focusing my thoughts on the wrong things. A friend of mine and I read chapter 1 of Philippians this week. We talked about Paul’s joy, thankfulness, and his love for others. Reading this helps me focus on finding my love and joy when others frustrate me and cause me to feel like I am swimming against the current. Focusing on this helps me learn to swim against the current life puts me in. Don’t give up and keep swimming!

“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. Philippians 1:9 (NLT)

Counting My Blessings,

Susan Browder