Flying Over Troubled Waters

I know the story of Noah’s Ark very well; no doubt, you do, too. I’ve read it many times in my life, but this week I saw something as if I had never read it before. That’s one of the amazing things about God’s Word. There’s always something more to discover, something fresh to bring encouragement when we are weary, uncertain, or fearful. It was the dove that captured my attention..

We read in Genesis that the earth had been flooded. Noah had warned of the judgement to come, but no one believed him except his own family. He was laughed at for building an ark, but then water began dropping from the sky. It didn’t stop. The ground was immersed in water. Rivers were bursting its banks. The oceans swelled to overflowing. In time the entire earth was covered in nothing but water. What tragedy for those who refused Noah’s warning. What tragedy awaits those who refuse Jesus today.

As we read chapter 8:1-2 it is written that God sent wind to blow across the earth, and the flood waters began to recede (NLT). In verse 8 we see that Noah released a dove to see if the water had receded enough to find dry ground. But the dove could find no place to land because the water still covered the ground. So it returned to the boat, and Noah held out his hand and drew the dove back inside (NLT). Do you see what happened there? The dove had been flying, but finding no place to land, it was obviously tired so it flew back to safety. Noah had to be watching because as the dove neared, Noah held out his hand. The dove didn’t simply fly through the window of the Ark. The exhausted dove landed on Noah’s hand and Noah brought him back into the boat.

This same thing happens to us. We go out and about into the world, taking care of our business, running errands, going to work, attending school, shopping, visiting friends, going to church. Somewhere along the way we have grown weary from our tasks. Perhaps we have encountered unpleasantries along the way. Maybe Satan has blatantly thrown temptations in our path. Maybe illness has harmed us or someone we love. There could be danger of a job being lost. The waters of life are often choppy, offering us no rest, no tranquility to ease our fears.

Being already weary from trying to keep your head above troubled waters; now you’re sinking in fear of drowning in your burdens, but you cry out, “God help me!” In an instant we see Father’s steady hand. He has outstretched it. Yes! You may go to Him, landing safely in His arms. Then He will bring you safely to Himself, comforting, guiding, protecting. Thankfully, we heed Jesus’ words, Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:29 ESV).

Just as Noah cared for the dove, how much more does our Heavenly Father care for us, offering us safety in His arms? Those strong, loving arms are always ready to take us unto Himself in peace and strength.