Follow the Holy Spirit

It was a 4-5 foot day at Ocean Beach in San Francisco. Amazing conditions despite the heavy fog, blanketing the coastline. I was paddling out with a friend, our stoke was so high. Fully anticipating some great waves. As we started to go out, we quickly realized it was not going to be an easy paddle out. After duck diving what felt like a never ending supply of waves, I started to get discouraged. My arms felt like noodles and I didn’t know if I could take another wave on the head. I looked over at my friend, who was a lot further ahead than I was, despite us starting at the same time. It dawned on me that he had found the rip current.

Once I found my way into the rip, I started to make progress and eventually made it out the back. Out of the impact zone. I felt so thankful for the rip, because I knew I wouldn’t have made it out without its help. The rip is a beautiful gift for surfers, who choose to use it. The rip current reminds me of the Holy Spirit and His place in our life. He is our guide and helps us get out the back, in the waves of life. There are so many life decisions that feel like you are duck diving for eternity. Taking wave after wave on the head. Big life decisions such as what career path to take, what school to go to or choosing the right spouse. Life is full of uncertainty and it could feel overwhelming to try to find a way through it all without the Holy Spirit. In John 14:16-17 & 26 Jesus says “And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper to be with you forever…You know Him for He dwells with you and will be with you…He will teach you all things and bring to remembrance all that I have said.” The Holy Spirit is with us to help lead us into the way, the truth and the life and gives us peace to live for Jesus, in every area of our life. I know, I personally, couldn’t get through life without the Holy Spirit and I am reminded that just like the rip current, the Holy Spirit is a beautiful gift for those who choose to access Him.

Image by Leason Dancaescu