Unaware

I remember watching a story on the news years ago that left an impression on me. There was a man stranded in the ocean and he floated on his back and tread water for over 24 hours. The news camera from the helicopter showed the man surrounded by hammerhead sharks. These sharks were circling him and he was completely unaware. The coast guard boat was behind him calling out to him trying to rescue him. He was completely unaware of their presence also. I can imagine this man was completely drained. He was working so hard to stay above water. He had no idea of the danger that surrounded him, nor did he know his rescuer was right behind him desperate to reach him.

There are so many who are like this man spiritually. They are drained and trying so hard just to keep their head above the water. All the while, they too are unaware of satan circling them and seeking to devour them. Just like the coast guard boat, God is calling and reaching out to them. If they would only turn their eyes to Him, they may realize the danger they are in and cry out to the One who is able to rescue them. The rescuers on the boat were calling out to him "just turn around and have a look, you're saved!"

This man finally did see his rescuers but was too weak to swim to them. They reached down and pulled him out of the treacherous waters filled with sharks and brought him to safety.

I am more than thankful that God rescued me when I was treading water, fearing I may drown in my sin and mistakes. He saw me trying to live life in my own power and strength. I was completely unaware of satan and his plans to utterly destroy me. When I was weak and drained, I cried out to Jesus and He reached down and pulled me to Himself. He rescued me from my enemy and myself!

I'm sure that man felt relieved and safe once he reached the boat. He was probably shocked when he later watched the video of the sharks surrounding him. I can look back on my life and see how God has protected me and waited on me. He is so patient and faithful! He was calling and reaching out to me but I was unaware, He never once gave up on me and He will not give up on you! He is relentless and His love is consuming. 

Let us praise Him today for rescuing and saving us. For those who are still unaware, let us love them and show them the same grace that God has shown us. Let us pray that they will see God longing to reach down and rescue them and that they will let Him do so.

"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the LORD was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me." Psalm 18:16-19