So, I've passed 6 of 7 sections of my E-6 board for my surface warfare qualification. One section (Operations) didn't show up and we are still waiting to reschedule. As I was praying this morning, God revealed to me how there really are no obstacles, only opportunities, when we seek to honor Christ.
Day shapes are literally shapes like balls and diamonds that are flown from the main mast to allow approaching vessels to know things that could be very relevant to the safety of both vessels. Here are some of the day shapes and the thoughts that God spoke to me this morning about them.
One black ball: If you see this flown, it means that the ship is anchored. Obviously, an anchored ship isn't going to move out of your way, so you might want to go around it if you are continuing to approach! As Christians, we should be anchored. We should be so grounded in Christ that we are clearly seen to be flying one black ball. We should clearly communicate through our lives that we are firm and will not be nudged off course of following Christ.
Two black balls: Two black balls means that the vessel is not under command. Unlike being anchored, we should never be flying this day shape as Christians! If we ever appear to not be under the command of Christ, it is because we have lost touch with the truth. God help us! Our vessel should always appear as one with a supremely capable captain at the helm.
Three black balls: This day shape means that the vessel is run aground. What a sad day if we are ever taken out of the race or caused to sit along the sidelines during this life! How could our vessel ever run aground if Christ is at the helm? Impossible...INCONCEIVABLE!
One black cylinder: Last but not least, this symbol means that the vessel is constrained by draft. In other words, the ship isn't floating right and is bogged down for whatever reason. How many of us feel like we are bogged down? I feel safe to say that we all do from time to time. Fortunately, the problem always ceases to exist when we possess the true perspective of Scripture. There is no need to be afraid or worried or upset or anxious about anything! Any burdens this vessel has can be laid at the feet of Jesus Christ who's yoke is easy and who's burden is light!
I am so thankful for the reality of Jesus Christ in my heart and in my life.
I'll close with this verse. I know Paul isn't talking about a sailing vessel, but I think you'll see the parallel.
Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.
2 Timothy 2:21
Day shapes are literally shapes like balls and diamonds that are flown from the main mast to allow approaching vessels to know things that could be very relevant to the safety of both vessels. Here are some of the day shapes and the thoughts that God spoke to me this morning about them.
One black ball: If you see this flown, it means that the ship is anchored. Obviously, an anchored ship isn't going to move out of your way, so you might want to go around it if you are continuing to approach! As Christians, we should be anchored. We should be so grounded in Christ that we are clearly seen to be flying one black ball. We should clearly communicate through our lives that we are firm and will not be nudged off course of following Christ.
Two black balls: Two black balls means that the vessel is not under command. Unlike being anchored, we should never be flying this day shape as Christians! If we ever appear to not be under the command of Christ, it is because we have lost touch with the truth. God help us! Our vessel should always appear as one with a supremely capable captain at the helm.
Three black balls: This day shape means that the vessel is run aground. What a sad day if we are ever taken out of the race or caused to sit along the sidelines during this life! How could our vessel ever run aground if Christ is at the helm? Impossible...INCONCEIVABLE!
One black cylinder: Last but not least, this symbol means that the vessel is constrained by draft. In other words, the ship isn't floating right and is bogged down for whatever reason. How many of us feel like we are bogged down? I feel safe to say that we all do from time to time. Fortunately, the problem always ceases to exist when we possess the true perspective of Scripture. There is no need to be afraid or worried or upset or anxious about anything! Any burdens this vessel has can be laid at the feet of Jesus Christ who's yoke is easy and who's burden is light!
I am so thankful for the reality of Jesus Christ in my heart and in my life.
I'll close with this verse. I know Paul isn't talking about a sailing vessel, but I think you'll see the parallel.
Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.
2 Timothy 2:21
I love the parallel to the SW material, Matt! I am excited for you to earn your qual, I noticed a group in Naples got it this last quarter, very cool.
ReplyDeletePlease pray for me this week, our baby girl is due tomorrow, can you believe I'm about to be someone's mommy? Physically I am of course "ready to pop" but doing my best to wait on God's perfect timing for her arrival. My command has been very supportive, like keeping Carlton home from a trip to Long Island tonight... We'll be posting on facebook when she comes of course, stay tuned! Peace, Brother :)