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… If we would but fully believe this, all undue
anxieties would be dismissed. – Steps to Christ, pp. 85-86
Bubbles filled my vision as I expelled the air from my lungs.
Kicking my legs, I swam further into the bay, my body becoming one
with the water as I glided through the turquoise liquid. Little did I know
that with each stroke, I was putting myself into imminent danger.
Wait. Why is there a spider? I thought, staring down at the
creature lying fifteen meters below me. A huge octopus lay motionless
on the white, sandy floor. All strength and coordination left me, save
the fact that I was shivering. Its head was huge—almost the size of
a medium-sized beanbag—and its tentacles were like tree branches.
I could see my life flashing before my eight-year-old eyes, and I
thought, This is it. You’re gonna die! That octopus looks hungry and—
Suddenly, the octopus shifted, and I screamed, in the process filling
my lungs with warm, salty water.
Spluttering, I came up for air. Ripping my diving mask off,
I made a beeline for the boat my dad was on. Once safely aboard
the rocking sea vessel, I breathlessly recounted the sighting I had
survived. After I had told Pápá of the deadly octopus, he convinced me
that the large creature didn’t want to devour me. Grabbing his hand,
we jumped overboard and looked down at the octopus again, yet this
time I felt no fear. Why? Because I had decided to trust him.
Similarly, God wants to stand by me and help me when I come
across an octopus—or something equally as frightening. Often, when
I am paralyzed by my fears, rather than trusting God to help me, I
float alone, exposed to countless dangers. But as soon as I realize
the predicament I am in and ask for His help, He will be by my side,
holding my hand. He wants us to “cast our cares on Him,” for He will
sustain us (1 Peter 5:7 NKJV). As soon as I decide to trust Him, I am
able to face all the “octopuses” that threaten to swallow me.