Sink or Swim

I often discover quotes that are so unique, enlightening, and intriguing that I am immediately drawn to explore them further. Here is one of them.  “Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the Ark…professionals built the Titanic.”*

It is normal to be apprehensive in any new life venture, but you can be sure of the promise of Isaiah 41:10 (MSG). “Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady; keep a firm grip on you.”

As you will remember, Noah’s story is told in Genesis 6-9. God spoke to Noah, and told him (with the aid of his three sons) to build an ark (large boat) the length of one and a half football fields and as high as a four story building. There would be a universal flood that would eliminate all of mankind due to their wickedness.

Only Noah his wife, his three sons, daughter-in-laws, and a variety of animals would survive this difficult forty day journey. Noah’s family had no experience in their task, but it turned out to be a complete success.

The Belfast shipbuilders, Harland and Wolff, constructed the luxurious ship, the Royal Mail Ship (RMS) Titanic, in about twenty-six months. On its April 12, 1912 maiden voyage from Southampton England, an employee of the Titanic’s ship line, White Star, commented “Not even God Himself could sink this ship.”

A total of 1,503 people died (and met their Maker) as a result of RMS Titanic sinking. Though this mighty ship was assembled by a group of skilled craftsmen, one of their greatest missions would be considered a complete failure.

The saying at the beginning of this post could be understood in many different ways. Here is my interpretation. “You don’t need to be a professional to venture out into something new (and exciting).”

A new venture could include could happen with a relationship, a hobby, or a renewed energy to one’s belief system. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone is best practiced on an individual basis.

In any undertaking in life always take to heart the words of Isaiah 43:19 (MSG). “Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out! Don’t you see it? There it is! I’m making a road through the dessert, rivers in the badlands.” You can do it.

*Taken from a photo by Al Horn from “A Woman’s Life” Facebook community.