PM: May 23, 2019

It’s almost summer time, a few weeks left in school…ahhhh… time for rest, fun and diving into the pool.

You may not remember the first time your parents took you swimming. Ask them about it–some babies cry a lot, some babies act like fish and just take off. One thing you may remember–the first time you dove off a diving board. Maybe you’re still waiting for that moment.

Do you remember what it was like right before diving for the first time? Did you just yell and jump in like a crazy brave person? Or did it take you a while (and possibly some bribing of ice cream from your parents)? You may have been scared, mostly just because it was new and you didn’t know what to expect.

That will happen a lot–you’ll be somewhere for the first time, and you may be unsure. You may be nervous because your family is moving, you may have friends that turn their back on you. Maybe it’s a summer camp you’re doing for the first time, or maybe it’s your dad having to go in for surgery.

Sometimes things are unknown and can be a bit scary and nerve-wracking. But God is with you and he gives you the strength to get through it. Bring your concerns to him and ask for the courage and strength.

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. ¹⁴ Do everything in love.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NIV)

Dear Lord, Be with me during the new, unknown times. Make me strong and give me courage. Help me to feel your presence. Amen.