Introduction
I am reading through Acts at the moment and have loved seeing the miraculous things God has done as ordinary people chose to step out in faith. There is often the temptation for us to brush aside these God moments as mere coincidences. Here’s a short, personal story of how God performed a miracle in a moment of us stepping out in faith.
Setting the scene for faith
It was a perfect summer day in early April. We headed towards the quiet farm dam for the first day of water sports activities on the teenage holiday camps I led in the nation of Zimbabwe. The campers sang joyfully as we bumbled along the narrow dusty road. Expectations were very high. As we arrived, the sun shimmered off the crystal clear water, and the long grass reeds swayed gracefully in the gentle breeze.
‘It’s going to be a great day’ I thought to myself, as the campers chattered excitedly whilst helping pump up watersports tubes and unload skis. I carefully launched the newly serviced ski boat off the jetty, whilst kind and dedicated leaders secured enthusiastic children into their life jackets. After explaining the safety briefing I gave a final reminder, ‘Please stay away from the boat as we start the engine everyone.’ Little did I know what the next few minutes would entail.
I turned the key, and to my despair, no response. I tried again a few more times, juggling the key and then finally resorted to knocking the ignition box – each attempt brought about the same frustrating result. ‘Sorry guys must be a fault with the electronic system,’ I said. ‘Not a major problem at all, we can just pull start!’ Sadly, this option also did not work as I expected it would. After multiple attempts, a very tired arm, and lungs gasping for air – my heart began to sink. This was not going to be a quick fix and I had run out of ideas – at least the earthly kind.
Looking across at the eager teenagers on the bank, I could see the disappointment rising in their soft hearts. The water lapped teasingly against sides of the boat. As surrender entered my mind, I silently rehearsed the best way to explain that water sports would not happen today and possibly for the rest of camp to these precious children entrusted to my care. ‘Lord, please show me what to do. My heart breaks for these kids and I don’t want this to ruin their camp experience,’ I pleaded under my breath.
The Miracle
A thought then sparked into my mind, and the clarity startled me, ‘Get the children together and pray for the boat’s motor to start!’ Just as hope began to flicker in my heart, the doubt, or the enemy I should say, meandered in and threatened to drown out my faith for what God could do. ‘That’s silly. Why would God care about a boat motor? Yes, He heals illness, but this is a little too menial. And what if God doesn’t come through, then you will look like a real fool in front of these children.’ The lies went on and on. I then remembered the amazing story of Jesus telling the little children to come to Him.
My gaze shifted again to these special kids, and I squashed the doubts. ‘Let’s do this thing!’ I said to myself, coaxing this young camp director into action. ‘Gather round everyone, we are going to pray for the Lord fix this motor!’ They eagerly shuffled in closer. Some had faith in the Lord. Others were purely on camp for the great food and awesome activities – but all wanted to see what would happen. I wish I could say I didn’t have any doubts, but a mustard seed amount was all I had. ‘Lord Jesus, please fix whatever is wrong with this boat motor,’ I prayed. We all shouted, ‘Amen!’
First pull start, nothing. Second, nothing. ‘It’s ok everyone, often we need to persevere.’ I chirped nervously. I could almost feel their questioning eyes pressing in on me. Was God going to come through? Third pull, a slight splutter, a vague distant feeling of life. ‘Let’s try once more everyone!’ I exclaimed with as much courage as could muster. As the cord was pulled, the engine burst into life! I have never seen such joy and excitement from a group of young people! It was electric!
That day of water sports at the lake was incredible, but most special of all was seeing young teenagers experience a loving, miracle-working God. I hope this provides inspiration for you to listen for God’s voice and step out in faith! You just never know what miracle He is wanting to do through you today!
Additional reading
Hebrews 11: Often referred to as the “faith chapter,” Hebrews 11 highlights numerous examples of faith from the Old Testament. It’s a comprehensive exploration of faith’s role in the lives of various individuals, including Abel, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and others.
Matthew 14:22-33: This passage recounts the story of Peter walking on water toward Jesus. It’s a powerful illustration of faith in action and the importance of keeping one’s eyes fixed on Jesus despite challenging circumstances.
Matthew 17:14-21: In this passage, Jesus teaches his disciples about the power of faith, emphasizing that even a small amount of faith can lead to significant outcomes. The story involves Jesus healing a boy with a demon after the disciples’ initial inability to do so.
A book called World Changers by Greg Laurie covers stories of God using ordinary people in extraordinary ways to change the world. Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, and others were just regular, imperfect people who chose to obey God’s call – and what a difference that made!
Learn how to Hear God’s voice.
