Some of life’s most profound lessons emerge not in calm waters but in moments of uncertainty.
Navigating by the Bible: A Lesson from the Fog
Years ago on a beautiful summer day, we set sail from Rye, NY, for Shelter Island in Long Island Sound. Near journey’s end, the fog rolled in, the wind died, visibility dropped, daylight gave way to darkness. My husband turned on the engine and slowly powered ahead.
At that time, our boat lacked radar and a GPS. But we did have two compasses and a depth finder which my husband used in conjunction with his charts to track our course. I stood on the bow of the boat away from the noise of the engine to listen and look for the entrance bell buoy to Shelter Island. If we couldn’t find it, we could land on the rocks or be hit by oncoming boats . . .
Eventually I heard the bell buoy. We cautiously approached it. My relief and sense of safety made me want to circle this bell buoy until the fog lifted. But my husband, a fearless yet cautious man, refused . . .
By carefully plotting our compass course and reading the soundings below, we made our way into the safety of the harbor . . .
I view the Bible and its revelations about God as my compass, chart, depth finder, GPS, boat, and habitat for my voyage through life. They are like bell buoys and road signs that point us toward our destination. How we use them is our choice.
From Anita E. Keire’s book, Walking on Water
Think About how the Bible can be a Compass for Life:
- What is your destination in life?
- How do you plan to reach it?
- Who or what will help you navigate the dangerous route ahead to an unknown future?
- Who will be your traveling companion?
What to do in Troubled Times
Just as we navigated through fog and darkness with the help of simple yet trusted tools, we can face life’s troubled times with the steady guidance God provides. Psalm 23 reminds us that we are not alone—He is always with us, guiding, comforting, and restoring our souls.
In moments of fear, uncertainty, or confusion, don’t wait for the fog to lift—pray right where you are. For more encouragement and practical steps, I invite you to read my post What to Do in Troubled Times.May you find comfort, courage, and direction through God’s Word, just as we did by the bell buoy that led us safely home.