In strong winds, the sails of your character, integrity, and confidence will be exposed whether you let them or not.

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Philippians 4:6

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Yesterday was about surfing. Today’s it’s about sailing.

I’m feeling a distinct call from the sea these days…

“Hold Fast” is a popular saying in the world of sailing. In fact, it’s so popular that many sailors have the letters tattooed on the four front-facing fingers of each hand. It basically means “Hang on and don’t let go.”

Wise words at sea where mistakes can be costly.

Life can be that way also. Every day, we have challenges that force us to hold tightly to what we believe and stand for. If you’re not careful, your grip on those things can slip away very easily, casting you into the depths of evil and despair.

Today’s Tiny Words. Big Life. Bible verse is from one of the most joy-filled books in the Bible. The Apostle Paul wrote to the church at Philippi at about the same time that Nero began feeding Christians to ravenous lions and burning them alive on tall poles to provide light for his elaborate banquets.

Paul is telling us that life will be difficult. In fact, he was in jail at the time of writing the letter. He had been imprisoned for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and was likely just before being put to death.

As a Christian, we’ll be tested because of our faith. The Evil One is constantly placing stumbling blocks in our path by way of temptations and hardships. He wants nothing more than to see you fall.

But Paul tells us to resist the Devil’s efforts – to seek joy in all circumstances.

In verse 12-13, he writes, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

The Tiny Words. Big Life. takeaway is this: Pray to find the joy of our salvation in every tumultuous turn of life. Pray to be a strength to others in times of need by sharing the love of Jesus with them. Pray to hold fast to the Gospel of Jesus Christ when the sails of your ship are beaten and battered.

And back to my call from the sea…

I’ve moved on from surfin’ and sailin’…

Now, I’m thinking of another activity that’s associated with the ocean. And this one, I actually know something about!

Here’s a hint…

Red Snapper sautéed in butter with lump crabmeat on top.

And come on! You’re welcome to join me!

But you’d better hurry because I’m holding fast to the skillet!

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Philippians 4:6

⁶ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.