Risky Business

Impulsive…I can be so impulsive!  As a little girl I wondered why this was so bad…I knew just what I wanted when I wanted it and I was able to make quick decisions when others seemed to be unsure. I didn’t like to wait either!

As I grew up, I discovered that being impulsive can be foolish, even dangerous. When I look back on my life I can see the foolish choices I have made, many of them impulsive choices, that didn’t turn out so well.

I have also discovered that some of my impulsive decisions have been used by God in His service.  I can see the times when I impulsively spoke up, stepped up and gave my life away in God honoring ways.  My quick impulse to “do” something has allowed me to serve others and serve God in some pretty cool ways!

I love to read about the disciple Peter because he was definitely impulsive.  Peter was also the only disciple who got out of the boat to walk on the water with Jesus too!

“Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.”

Matthew 14:28-29 NLT

Being impulsive got Peter out of the boat while the other disciples watched him.  However you can tell pretty quickly that Peter didn’t think this one through, did he?

“But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”

Matthew 14:30-31 NLT

Peter was the disciple that risked, who was definitely impulsive, and he is the one that Jesus called the “rock”.  When he got himself in trouble, Jesus helped him back into the boat, isn’t that amazing?!

I know that Jesus has helped me to get back into “His boat” after making an impulsive decision many many times.  Just like Peter, I have experienced Gods grace and love when I am in over my head…sometimes without really knowing it.  God is so good, isn’t He?

Peter eventually became solid in his faith and much less impulsive.  It’s a life long process as Jesus changes us when we invite him into our hearts and give him permission to change us.

I am truly a work in progress. While I am still impulsive at times, I am also learning to seek wisdom from the Bible and other Christians, especially the leaders God has placed in my life.

I love the stories of Peter and Jesus in the Bible!  They encourage me to keep on risking for the Lord…while that may mean being somewhat impulsive at times, I want to be ready for his service!

Linda Hopkins