Calming Waters
Photo Credit: A. J. Medley
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
– Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
I thoroughly enjoyed my friends’ lively wedding celebrations in Kerala. From learning about the wedding traditions, to the friendly hospitality, and the delicious food, it was all such a great time. One of the highlights for this trip was the houseboat river tour we took in Kerala’s “back waters.” This boat ride was the EPITOME of relaxation. There was something so soothing about taking in the lush countryside while sailing on the water’s slow currents. During that ride it seemed as though all my worries and concerns simply melted away. Needless to say, it was very difficult to leave that peaceful state of mind behind.
This experience draws me directly to the first verse of the hymn “It is Well,” which states, “When peace like a river attended my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, ‘It is well, it is well with my soul.’” The hymn’s author, Horatio Gates Spafford, was explaining that whatever we may face—peace, joy, and/or heartbreak—we can trust that God will carry us through. As His children, He works for our good (Rom. 8:28).
