Cast Off

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life…” Matthew 6:25

If you’ve ever been on a cruise ship, then you know that all cruises begin the same way. Once all the passengers board, the ship’s horn sounds, and most of those on board rush up onto the deck. Further below, the thick ropes that held the ship to the dock are let go. Then the vibration of the engines can be felt in the steel beneath your feet. Moments later, the dock begins to slip away.

The ship has cast off. It has been released from the many lines that held it firmly to land, and it is free to move into the open water. There is a rush to the senses as you realize that you are finally underway—a journey has begun and you are a part of it! For a time, you will leave your life behind on the shore where your car remains parked for the next few days. As the boat leaves, you embark on a carefree time aboard.

Throughout the New Testament, God tells us not to be anxious. He tells us not to worry about tomorrow, the future, and things we cannot control. He says don’t be troubled or afraid and repeatedly reminds us to cast our cares on Him, that He gives us peace, and that He has prepared a place of rest for us.

God certainly knows our tendency is to stay docked in our challenges. We tend to moor ourselves to every piece of bad news. We spend our time wondering what shoe will drop next. But this is not the life God desires for us. He loved us enough to send His Son to die for us, and He desires for us to live in confidence that He has our best interest at heart at all times.

Instead of remaining tied down, we can confidently cast off the binding ropes of anxiousness and fear. Because we know our ultimate future in heaven, even the waves and storms of life do not have to sink us on our journey in Christ. God wants us to enjoy the journey, feel the motion He provides under our feet, and finally get underway. Stop looking back at the dock, worrying if everything will be okay. Instead, look to the ocean ahead and marvel at the freedom of life on the open waters of God’s grace.

God, thank You for giving me hope and confidence in my future with You. Help me to cast my fear and anxiety on You, and to live a life of freedom in You, knowing that You always have my best interest at heart. Help me not to hold onto every negative thought that comes my way. Instead, let me cast off and enjoy the journey You have prepared for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.