The One Who Rescues Us When We’re Sinking

…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

Splash. In the blink of an eye, she was in the water.  My three-year-old daughter sank into the depth of our friend’s pool right before me. She thought it was a good idea to mischievously remove her water wings and plop into the pool. Her body and face were completely engulfed by the water but her eyes were fixed on me…wide open, no blinking, completely focused on the only one who could save her.

I was able to save her quickly, but replaying that terrifying event always brings one thing vividly back to mind. I will always remember the image of Abby’s face. Her tiny eyes were focused on me. Pleading.

To help her.

To save her.

Nothing else mattered in that moment but me, the one she depended upon to rescue her. I immediately jumped in the water to scoop her into my arms, pulling her close in a warm embrace. I had saved my baby.

This experience reminds me of how I need to keep my eyes focused on my Savior, Jesus Christ – the only one who can save me. He is the only one who can grip me from sinking into the struggles of life.

More often that I care to admit, I need to be reminded that when I keep my eyes fixated on Jesus, He will not let me down. As I practice this focus I have less time to dwell on my circumstances and more time to give glory to my Heavenly Father.

My complete dependence has to be on God. Just as my daughter realized I was her only hope of rescue, I am bombarded with the realization that I too, am completely dependent on the One who lifts me up. Without God’s love, I am nothing. Without the sacrifice of His son, I have no hope.

He rescues us in more ways than we can count.

Be encouraged that God is there to save you from whatever circumstance befalls you. Keep faith in Him and don’t let your eyes wander or be distracted from the true source of salvation. Christ will be there to lift you up from the depths of your despair. Trust Him to do His part, and He definitely will.

Alisha Ritchie

Alisha Ritchie is a wife, mother of two wonderful children, Physical Therapy Assistant by profession, dedicated church member and Sunday School teacher. She resides in the small town of Stanfield, North Carolina, where she enjoys writing, spending time with her children, and ministering to others through her work and small group Bible studies.