With the Wind in My Face

I took my new hearing aids kayaking. I want to test them in all situations to be sure they will fit my lifestyle. Any hearing aid that shrinks back from kayaking will never be my friend. There was a strong breeze so I headed out into the wind. This is a basic rule of kayaking 101 -- always head against the current if it is strong, or into the wind on your way out. Then when you are tired for the return trip, you have the wind and/or the current at your back.

The hearing aids did admirably. Despite the strong wind in my face (and ears) they did not blow away, nor did they whistle or make undue noise. I could still hear the osprey and geese clearly. It was not unbearable against the wind, and it was a beautiful day. I relished the time of peace and bobbing on the water, praying to God and looking at the wonder of His creation. I went further out than I usually do because it was such a gorgeous day, and I knew the wind would carry me home, strong and sturdy at my back when I turned around.

Except...it didn't. And it wasn't. At precisely the moment I turned around, God turned the wind around. I had a long trek back to the dock...now fatigued...with the wind STILL in my face. In fact, the force of the wind seemed to have accelerated. My hearing aids continued to work just fine, but I did not. I was tired, and I had not counted on the wind in my face both going and coming.

Isn't this often the way God helps us grow? We face hardships, difficulties, trials, and we admirably (if we do say so ourselves) face and overcome them. Now it is time for the pay-back, the reward, the accolades, the wind at our back.  Except, No. More hardships, more difficulties, more trials...and we wonder if we will ever make it Home in one piece. Why does God do this? Don't we deserve a break, especially after all we have endured up to this point?

I was ready to scream at the wind, but of course that is useless. Instead, I figured if I had to rest, I would rest. I had plenty of water, emergency food, and look! Since I was crawling so slowly, I had plenty of time to see what I believe was a baby osprey poke his face above the osprey nest! Even in the midst of trials, beauty and joy! I felt very proud of myself when I reached shore. I felt like I had accomplished something worthwhile, and now the next time I battle the wind for 2 hours, I will know I can do it.

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1 Peter 5:10 

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

James 1:12

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

Romans 12:12 

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

1 Corinthians 10:13 

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

John 16:33 

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Philippians 4:6-7 

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.