I heard the words again and again yesterday afternoon. My son and daughter were in the shallow end of the pool at our hotel, here in the Smokies. Emily was trying to teach Isaac how to float on his back. She had her arms extended under his torso – and with her support he was desperately trying to lie flat on top of the water.
But he could not.
And she kept saying to him, “Relax, buddy! Lie down! Just let me help you! You can do this if you let me help you.” He’d almost lie back in her arms, but then sit back up again and the whole routine would start over. I’m not sure what the specific reasons were on his part, but it never happened. Isaac did not float on his back in the pool yesterday. Not on his own. Not with help. Not at all.
The thing about floating for the first time is, its nice to know someone’s arms are underneath while you’re trying to learn how. This knowledge is the first step towards success.
There were moments where it was almost comical watching Isaac in the struggle. It would have been truly funny if Isaac didn’t remind me of someone… hmmmmm…. who is he like again? oh yeah. That would be me.
When learning to float you can’t just know that someone’s arms are there to make the rescue if necessary, you also have to trust that they are able and will step in when needed.
Oh, I have so much in common with my son. I wish I could tell you that I lead a relaxed life – that I know and trust the everlasting arms that are underneath me. But – just as I begin to lie back and find myself almost at ease, I sit back up – prepared to intervene on my own behalf. I think by jumping in and taking control that I am doing some good. But the reality is I’m not living the life He intended – the one where I rely on Him fully to take care of every situation for my good. It slips from my grasp every time I try to too hard to manipulate my circumstances.
If I listen closely, I hear similar words to the ones my daughter was saying to Isaac:
from Deuteronomy 33:
27 The eternal God is your refuge,
And underneath are the everlasting arms;
Heavenly Father, Help me learn to trust you more. In each situation, bring to mind that Your arms are cradling me and that you are the most reliable, trustworthy solution than my own plans and ideas. Thank you for your everlasting arms of refuge. amen.
It is so good to know that I do not need to try to do this life alone. That I really can relax already! Whatever it is, I can do it with His help.
daily portion 
This is so true, I loved reading it, and thank you for the reminder!