I am often awed by the incredible things we can teach little children. They are so willing to accept instructions from those they trust. One day, while I watched a video of a baby being taught infant self-rescue by a swim instructor, the Holy Spirit revealed how stillness looks for those who trust in God. We can be still and know God is God.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the leading cause of death among children four years old and younger. Small children are immature in their understanding of the dangers of water or how to navigate safely returning to dry ground. Although a watchful eye, fences, flotation devices, and alarms are all wonderful inventions, only one thing will save a child when all else fails.
The devastation of losing a child to drowning can be decreased significantly by giving them the skills to sustain a protected airway until help arrives. Infant Self Rescue allows the baby to fall into the water in a controlled environment as the instructor guides the child to reorient to the surface, relax their body, and let their natural ability to float take over until help arrives.
My immaturity and lack of understanding often cause me to have difficult situations. I will flail about in a state of panic, trying to save myself through tactics that seem helpful at the moment but only end up making matters worse.
But there is a better way. God wants to teach those who love Him about the treasure of stillness. If we stop flailing and yield to the process—the plans and purpose ordained by His hand—something amazing happens: we float. It may feel like a vulnerable position, and we don't really know when the rescue will happen, but a maturing believer trusts God and knows He is good. He promises to remain with us. Therefore, we can surrender to this truth when life overwhelms us. He will always care for His children.
Let God teach you how to be still.
Keisha Jaquay is a writer.