“The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” — Proverbs 16:9 (ESV)
Come Sail Away
It’s amazing the lessons that you learn once you get married. You know the phrase, “Let go and let God”? I’m sure you’ve heard it many times prior to reading it here, but it is probably the most difficult thing to do for people, including myself. I received a great reminder a few months ago.
My wife and I were on our honeymoon in June, and we decided to go sailing — the first time for each of us. We rented a catamaran and ventured out into the Caribbean with no formal training or lessons. We pushed off from shore and drifted out some 100 feet, and then stopped. We were there, stranded for a few minutes, and watched as the next group went zipping by us.
Every few minutes we would catch some wind and move, then I would try something and we would stop. The more I pulled on the rope attached to the sail to make things happen, the less we moved. Eventually we drifted ashore and I had to get out and pull us back into the water. Finally, I decided to let go of the rope and turn the rudder to grab some wind. As soon as I let go of the rope, the sail filled and we were off.
Once we realized we needed to hold the rope loosely and let the sail fill itself, we went cruising up and down the coast and really enjoyed ourselves. It was a great, simple reminder that the tighter we hold, the less we move forward. Once we release, God will “fill our sails.”
I challenge you to let go of the rope and let God fill your sails. All you have to do is go along for the ride.
— Ryan DiNunzio
If you would like to submit a reader devotional, please email all submissions to jason@sportsspectrum.com.
