Charted

What is Charted?

Like a master surveyor, Jesus gives us clear directions to find a fulfilling, purpose-filled relationship with Himself - a map to the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Charted is a daily devotional written by the junior class at Fountainview Academy (Class of 2019). Based on the book Steps to Christ, this book explores the path to the Originator and Provider of Genuine Joy. We don't have to be confused about the way. The certainty is in the journey: divinely Charted.

If we will but listen, God’s created works will teach us precious lessons
of obedience and trust. – Steps to Christ, pg. 85
A waft of chilled air hovers over the scenic lake, intensifying
the numbing effects of the icy water on my shivering form. Being
only seven years old and having zero experience in the profession
of water skiing makes for a memorable first day at camp. While the
instructor yells out directions from the boat for the millionth time, I
untangle myself from the jumble of skis and rope. Positioning myself
in the water, I grab the tow handle. Before long, I hear the countdown,
causing every muscle in my body to quiver. Just as the boat snaps into
action, everything I had just processed from the instructor’s repetitive
speech whips behind me in a sudden gust of wind.
Smack! My body slams against the concrete wall of water,
pulling me under a raging current that refuses to uncoil itself. The
boat remains in forward motion, dragging my head under and forcing
gallons of water through my nostrils and into my lungs. Only two words
circle through my mind: hold on. Somehow, in my state of anxiety, I
take the instructor’s advice far too seriously. When my lungs can no
longer handle the never-ending stream of water, my frigid hands finally
release their grip and let go of the rope.
In my life there are people, places, things, and circumstances
that I tend to hold on to that hinder my spiritual health. Unfortunately,
I tend to cling on even tighter to these things when my stress levels
rise, causing undue harm as I am dragged into a spiraling abyss of
helplessness. Unlike the ski instructor, God gives me all the directions
I need. All I must do is let go and listen.