In Times of Confusion

…let every living thing praise His name forever.

Psalm 145:21 CSV

“Oh no, that baby turtle is way out in the middle,” I cried. “It should swim closer to shore where the water is shallow!” My granddaughter and I watched that hatchling paddle onward toward the deeper water. I feared for the little turtle until I realized, “No turtle ever worries about how deep the water is!” God designs turtles to swim, and this baby swam toward the deep water with confidence.

How I wish I could find that same confidence in my own world when I feel adrift on the currents of life. Adam and Eve must’ve experienced this sort of anxiety as they left the safety of The Garden. Surely, the disciples felt it during a terrible storm when they asked the Lord Jesus, “Don’t you care if we drown?” Helpless parents of sick children know this sort of panic, the same as Lazarus’ sisters feared for their brother as his life ebbed away. 

This feeling of drifting about on a troubled sea has always been a part of the human experience. Somehow, knowing about that history doesn’t provide comfort when it’s you feeling abandoned and tossed about. These times remind me that even though frightening realities are part of this world, He numbers my days and promises to never leave me. 

As believers, we claim His promises and thank Him for providing a solid foundation for our hearts and minds. We call out to him and ask for what we need, just like the saints and sinners did in the Scriptures. We praise Him for who He is and for the life circumstances He has given us. 

The Psalmist urged all creation, “…let every living thing praise His name forever.” And, just like that tiny turtle, we keep on paddling—right up to the time we arrive on the other shore and meet Him face to face!

Linda Les