I Corinthians 12:31 “But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.” Immediately following this scripture of Paul is the much-quoted “Charity Chapter” – I Corinthians 13. Without doubt, Chapter 13 exemplifies “a more excellent way”!
For our thought’s consideration let’s add a few other scriptures. Elijah in I Kings 18:21 asked his people, “…How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him…”
In Ezekiel 47 we read the allegory of the ankle-deep water, of walking through the water where it is measured a thousand cubits, how it becomes knee-deep, then a river to swim in. Finally, it exemplifies the lifegiving work of a deep flowing river. This story no doubt may mean different things to different people. My mind is on the limitations we place on ourselves when we hesitate in our decision whether to serve God, or Baal. Are we content with ankle-deep servitude, or would we immerse ourself in a lifegiving river? A river where we have no idea where God will lead us?
If we search for “a more excellent way” the blessings are incredible. God promises “…I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5b
I’m not a confident swimmer. Thus, when I push off into deep water, I need to remind myself to breathe. “Don’t hold your breath. Relax, breathe. Relax…” This can be compared to how “a more excellent way” comes about. We need to remember to breathe. “Breathe, trust God. Breathe, trust God.”
My swimming skills have developed slowly. Those experienced in swimming might say my skills haven’t developed at all! However, I’m fascinated with water. It’s out there. And it beckons me. I have thoroughly enjoyed my canoe and kayak expeditions, with the security of my life jacket. My apprehension has robbed me of fantastic opportunity. I’ve sat on the shore, my kayak on my roof rack. I’ve analyzed the waves and fretted; tried to decide if I was up to challenging them. Sometimes confidence has won. I enjoyed the paddle. Other times I’ve been aware that my incompetence was robbing me of an exhilarating time.
Are we there, in our servitude to Christ? Are we in ankle-deep water because of fear of the unknown? Do we not swim well because we do not have confidence in the Master; our lifeguard or pilot? Is uncertainty and lack of commitment causing us to halt between two opinions?
Let Go. Let God. He promised “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
