While working on my swimming pool this past weekend there was one consistent warning attached to anything having to do with the pool. Do Not Dive! If you dive you will risk paralysis or even death. As we close out the “In Deep” series something came to mind; is it safe to dive in without knowing what hidden dangers may lurk just below the surface? How do I know when it’s safe to jump in?

If we are going to go deep I think its important to realize that the waters are safe only as long as we are diving into the right pool. We have to decide do we want to dive into the pool where God is our lifeguard or risk swimming in uncharted waters?

Scripture is full of references like these that show how God provides for us and protects us:

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. (Jeremiah 29:11-13 NLT)

God’s way is perfect. All the lord ’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. (Psalms 18:30 NLT)

The problem is we have to use discernment to determine if we are doing what God wants and to make it even more challenging we can’t even comprehend what God has in mind for us.

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. (Isaiah 55:8 NLT)

So how do I know when its safe to jump? I think you have to answer these basic questions:

• Does it line up with what the Bible says?
• Does it bring glory to God or am I doing it out of selfish motivation to make myself look good?
• Am I jumping in to please God or to please myself?
• Is it something I can easily do by myself or will it require God’s supernational power to achieve it?

After you have answered these questions dive in and enjoy the swim!

Scott Pollard
Associate Pastor