Deep Water

Deep Water

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you.” Isaiah 43:2 NASB

“God brings men into deep waters, not to drown them, but to cleanse them.” John Aughey

Many, many years ago my sisters and I, about elementary school age, were swimming at the local pool. We lived there in the summer. I bet you did too, or a stream, lake or beach. Kids, summer and water are natural. It’s like paradise! However, my youngest sister went too deep where I was swimming and jumped on my back in fear. Cloying, splashing, repeating “I’m scared” over and over. I couldn’t see because of the water but we made it. I don’t know how. I went back to swimming. My sister was done. One was overwhelmed. One was back at it. Both were grateful.

Deep Water. We can say that experience was nothing but for eight to 10-year-olds, it was traumatic! But that’s when many traumatic experiences happen. Childhood. And we need help.

Deep Water Responses:

Physical problems like overeating, drinking, not sleeping or sleeping too much, being startled easily and more.

Emotional problems like anxiety, avoiding people or situations, depression and lack of hope are difficult. They stick like Gorilla glue and we don’t even know why.

Another symptom is doing too much. Always going and if you stop, the world will end. A hamster on a wheel but the hamster enjoys it.

Pleasing others way beyond your limits.

I had all the above and more. I grappled with this for years! Still do. And I sought help from my Father, a professional and a dear friend.

Our Father promises to bring us through.

And the memories are there as a caution, to help others and keep us close to the father. It’s the really deep water that builds character, truth and trust. We probably will not know all the ways our Deep Water experiences have cleansed us and helped others here on Earth. The Father thinks it’s important and will reward us a little here and a whole lot more up there “Beyond all that we could ask or think.”

Musings

“No, that trauma you faced was not easy. And God wept that it hurt you so; But it was allowed to shape your heart so that into his likeness you’d grow. You are who you are for a reason, You’ve been formed by the Master’s rod. You are who you are, beloved because there is a God!” Unknown.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Thank you for our anchor, Jesus, and for bringing us through deep waters. Jesus reminds us he is the Living Water, we’re to lie down beside the still waters and we will be restored.

Help us in our Deep Water times. Help us to help others who may be drowning. Remind us always that Deep Water times are because you love us.

Amen.