When the Waters Rise: Finding Our Anchor in the Deep End of the Work

There are times, especially when you’re deep in the field, or even just trying to navigate the complexities of modern discipleship, when the waters feel vast and the waves feel relentless. You look out at the horizon, and all you see is the next cresting wave, the next challenge, the next 'what if?'

It can feel like the spiritual equivalent of being caught in a squall—the noise, the doubts, the sheer depth of what we are asked to do. We’re called to be internet missionaries, to be disciples everywhere, all the time. We’re called to go where the Spirit leads, even when our feet feel like they might drag us under.

I was thinking this week about a song, "Oceans." When I first heard it, it resonated so deeply that I felt like I was sitting right in the middle of a missionary discussion, feeling the weight of expectation, but also the overwhelming promise of the Savior’s Atonement. It’s a beautiful depiction of yielding control.

If you’ve ever felt that pull—that moment where your own strength isn't enough, where the current is too strong—I want you to listen to this. It’s a powerful reminder that our faith isn't about keeping our eyes *on* the waves; it’s about keeping our eyes *on Him*.

The lyrics speak of being called out upon the waters, and finding Him in the deep. It’s a beautiful metaphor for the discipleship journey, isn't it? We are constantly being called to go deeper—deeper into scripture study, deeper into our covenants, deeper into the Savior’s grace. It’s where our faith is truly tested and, ultimately, where it is made stronger.

The Invitation to Trust the Deep

As we prepare for the next wave of transfers, or as we are just trying to keep the momentum going in our local wards, it’s easy to get caught up in the visible challenges—the immediate needs, the curriculum, the next committee meeting. But the core of it, the bedrock of the work, is trust. Trusting that no matter how deep the waters get, His grace bounds us.

This isn't just a nice song to listen to during a quiet moment. This is a principle for missionary preparation. When you are studying for those tough questions, when you are practicing your opening statements, or when you are simply trying to feel the Spirit during a quiet moment of scripture study, remember this feeling. You are not expected to have all the answers, but you are expected to keep your eyes above the waves and call upon His name.

A Little Prep Skill for the Week

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the scope of the work, try this small exercise this week. When you feel that wave of doubt or anxiety, pause. Don't try to solve the problem immediately. Instead, pause and recite a simple covenant promise—something like, "I will keep my eyes above the waves when the options rise." This simple act of declaration shifts your focus from the danger *around* you to the promise *above* you.

I know some of you are diving deep into the Book Club discussions in HolyPlaces, and others are wrestling with tough theology in a Bible Study Group. Whatever your current assignment, remember that the power isn't in our preparation alone; it's in the Savior's embrace.

If this message resonated with you, I invite you to join us for our weekly Disciple Challenge this Saturday. It’s a low-pressure way to share testimonies and strengthen our covenant path together. Let’s keep lifting each other up as we navigate these waters!