It bothered me.
As I began writing “Impossible on Purpose,” I was deeply convinced that God provides. That’s as simple as Jesus’ prayer for our daily bread on one hand, and my own experience on the other. Yes, He provides; yes, He transforms; yes, He gets His children out of tight spots. These things crop up all over the Bible.
But I wasn’t so sure of my main theme. To launch out into the frankly impossible — and perhaps even foolhardy — on purpose? Certainly it worked for all two thousand orphans in George Muller’s care. But could I honestly say it was a Biblical principle?
It kept nagging at me.
I kept writing.
And I kept praying for baby Isaiah: when his mother’s water broke so early; when he was born so very tiny; and when it was time for him to go home to Jesus.
In the end, the conclusion of his story shaped the end of my article. I was challenged by the magnitude of his parents’ faith in such a terrifying situation, and awed by the worship Isaiah’s life generated in so many. It was at his memorial reception, as I was explaining this article to a friend, that I realized the solution to my dilemma.
What could be more impossible than Peter’s stroll on the (very stormy) surface of the Sea of Galilee? Not only that, but he initiated the adventure.
I’m beginning to wonder: does Jesus ever wait for me to do something? Does He get excited, perhaps, when I’m just audacious enough to think He can do miracles through me?
Here’s what I do know: Peter had a wild idea. He checked his idea with Jesus. And when Jesus called him to do it, he went.
Hmm.
As long as I’ve got my eyes on Him, I’ll be safe.
Elisabeth Adams 