Living Water by Leason Dancescu

Image: WSL

Let’s be honest, as surfers we tend to have a good bit of pride. It is pretty common to hear things in the lineup or at a post surf hang like, “Did you see that turn?” or “That was the best wave of my life.” Certainly more common is the humble brag - “That turn was OK, but I kinda bogged it” or “Yeah I mean I got a little cover but not a full shack.” What you don’t often hear people talking about are the full-on kooked out moments, the wipeouts, and the hold downs. But these are teaching moments for humility, faith, and trust.

In surfing terms, I had just caught the “biggest and best wave of my life.” Solid 10 ft face, got a few turns in, kicked out and was frothing for more. With my ego, pride and confidence up, I got out the back and took off even deeper. It was as if God was instantaneously telling me to check myself, my pride, and my attitude. I tried to pull in and GOT WORKED. Deepest hold down, full-on rag doll, watch ripped off my wrist, board tombstoning... absolutely WORKED! I remember being tossed around in that deep dark water, waiting for the energy to subside to get back to the surface, and I could feel a lingering question: What is the Lord teaching me, RIGHT NOW?! 

I truly believe that in that moment, He was teaching me that full surrender means trusting in God at all times. In the best wave of your life AND the worst wipeout. To fully surrender is to not rely on our own skill or ability but to rely on the one who made us and blessed us with all our being. Sometimes we are taught harsh lessons to remind us to fully trust in Him and the purpose He has for our lives. These trials should be a welcome joy, because on the other side of them is a deeper trust and connection to our Living Savior.

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness” James 1:2-3