The Rapids of Ministry

 

White Water Rafting is one of those activities that is classified as both exhilarating and stupid. Seriously, the scariest part is what you’ve paid to experience. 

It is a “must add” for your bucket list.

 

White Water Rafting is one of those activities that is classified as both exhilarating and stupid. Seriously, the scariest part is what you’ve paid to experience. 

It is a “must add” for your bucket list.

          Step one of rafting-readiness is making it through all the paper work which basically states you know you are doing something insane and promise not to sue the company in the event you end up paralyzed or dead.  

          Step two-climb into a small rubber raft, entwine your life with six other people and trust the experience of the all knowing guide. 

          Step three-paddling…lots and lots of paddling. Paddling down the river takes unified effort from all members under the instruction of the guide and his/her precision steering as his/her paddle acts as the rudder. While the water is calm, paddling is slow and steady allowing time to enjoy the beautiful landscape and the company of your raftmates. When you get to the rapids then it’s time to sit up straight, lock your leg under the sidewall of the raft, tighten your grip on the paddle handle and get ready to dig in and give it all you’ve got. Rapids are intense! 

          As you approach the raging waters, your heart is pounding out of your chest and the vanes in your forehead feel like they are

going to explode (I think that is why they give you a helmet). But this is what you signed up for. You were warned at the very beginning of the journey that this moment was coming and you were instructed on how to properly handle it. You have been equipped with everything you need to be successful. Plus, you have your personal guide in the boat with you to give instruction and encouragement along the way. 

          I often reflect on this paddling experience when going through the raging rapids of ministry. When the waters are calm, it is great to fellowship with other believers and entwine your life with theirs. But when the rapids come you start to wonder what you’ve signed up for. 

          Step one to surviving-Keep in mind that you were warned through God’s Word that times will be tough, persecution will c

ome and drama is just around the corner. It also instructs on how to handle these situations and encourages you to persevere.

          Step two-Trust the wisdom of your guide. You have been equipped with everything you need to be successful and even provided with your own personal guide (the Holy Spirit) to encourage and instruct you during your journey. 

          Step three-Paddle! When the rapids are approaching it’s time to grip the paddle, dig in and give it all you’ve got. These are the times that build godly character and strengthen your faith. 

 James 1:2-4

2 Corinthians 4:7-1

Romans 5:2b-5