Lessons from a Sailboat 16

Lesson 16: Charts

I sail on Lake Simcoe, in Southern Ontario. Consisting of approximately 300 square miles of surface area and 144 miles of shoreline it is big enough to get lost in. The lake is notorious for its sudden storms that spring up without notice. It also has both deep holes and shallow bays. For this reason I carry a chart in my boat. This chart gives me detailed information about the depth of the lake, about where the islands and shoals are, and where the buoys are. Using the chart I can plot my course and stay relatively safe.

As a Christian you also have a chart. It is the Bible. It will not predict your future, but it will provide you with essential information that will enable you to steer your life in the right direction. The Bible is indispensible for anyone who intends to live according to God’s will. It provides us with  God’s rules for living. It inspires us with stories of faith. It shows us Jesus. Read your Bible regularly. Live by its teaching and you will sail on to Heaven’s shore.

Psalm 119:5

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Lessons from a Sailboat 15

Lesson 15: Lighthouses

Lighthouses hold a lot of romance. The picture of a lighthouse standing tall against a darkening sky, shining its light across the billowing waves inspires and encourages us. The stores of lighthouse keepers and daring rescues hold our imagination. Today most lighthouses are unoccupied; they are simply automated lights fixed to structures on shore. Nevertheless they still provide navigational aid to sailors at night, leading them to a harbour or warning them about dangers.

Lighthouses remind me of those people in my life who inspire me. They are the strong, stalwart Christians who have held their place amid the storms of doubt and the waves of discouragement. The have proven by their years of steadfastness that they can be trusted, that their advice is sound, and that they can be relied upon. As you reflect about your life think about those people who have inspired you. Thank God for those who continue to shine a light for you, warning you of dangers and directing you to where you should go.

Matthew 5:14

“You are the light of the world.

Lessons from a Sailboat 14

Lesson 14: Lifejackets

One piece of equipment that a responsible boat operator is never without is a lifejacket, also called a PFD (personal flotation device). Technically a lifejacket and a PFD are not the same, but they serve much the same purpose. Boating regulations require that there must be at least one lifejacket or PFD for every person on board a boat. They are stowed in a safe, easily accessible location on the sailboat. The captain should inform every passenger and crew of their location. Lifejackets are to keep a person afloat if he or she is in the water. This equipment is for emergency use. It can save your life.

Even Christians face emergencies. There are times when we are thrown into the deep, when we are over our heads. There are times when we face storms just as anyone else does—a loved one dies, we face serious health problems, our marriage is in trouble, we lose our job. An old Gospel song says, “With Christ in the vessel, we’ll smile at the storm.” As Christians, we have fellowship with Jesus every day, but it is assuring to know that He is particularly near us during life’s emergency situations. You also can rely on the support of other Christians to pray with and for you and to see you through.

Psalm 50:15

…call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you,

Lessons from a Sailboat 13

Lesson 13: Fenders Have a Purpose

If you visit a marina you will often see cylindrical rubber devices hanging from the sides of boats. These are not decorations (they are too tacky looking for that). These rubber cylinders are called fenders or bumpers, depending on which part of the world you live. Their purpose is to protect the side of the boat from damage that might be caused by rubbing against the dock or another boat. Fenders don’t protect from serious collisions but from day to day interaction with the environment of a marina.

In our Christian life we have to live and interact with other people. Some of them are Christian, others are not. Most of the time these people will not cause us wilful damage. However the accumulative effect of day to day interaction with others who might rub us the wrong way can sometimes get us down. To cushion the negative effect caused by the hurtful actions and words of others we need to have spiritual fenders. We need to be able to lessen the impact with our own soft words, kind actions, and quiet demeanour. In this way we avoid hurt feelings and damaged relationships.

Proverbs 15:1

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Lessons from a Sailboat 12

Lesson 12: The Importance of Lights

One of the most important safety lessons for sailors is to make sure that other boaters are aware of their boat’s presence. On a clear day most boats can easily be seen. At night it is a different story. This is why all boats have to be equipped with lights in the event that they are out after dark. The regulations vary according to the size of the boat, but most often boats have a green light showing on the starboard (right), a red light showing on the port (left) and a white light showing on the stern (back). In fog boats have to sound a horn or bell.

In our post-modern, post-Christian culture, it is more important than ever for Christians to be seen and heard. Our western culture is steadily growing darker. We need to let our light shine so that all who are around us will know who we are and what we are. We don’t need to blast them out of the water with a giant floodlight. But neither should we hide our light. An unmistakable “red light” will make it clear where we draw the line. A “green light” will show what our standards are. And a “white light” will reveal our true self. And when things are morally foggy, let us not hesitate to make our voices heard.

Matthew 5:16

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven

Lessons from a Sailboat 11

Lesson 11: Compass

For centuries sailors have relied on their compass to find their way across vast stretches of unmarked ocean. When out of sight of land or sailing in a fog there is no way to tell in which direction you are heading without a compass or GPS. A compass contains a magnet that lines up with the earth’s magnetic pole. It is therefore possible to navigate fairly confidently even when you cannot see any onshore marks to guide you. On my sailboat the compass is mounted where I can easily see it while operating the tiller so that I can keep the boat on a steady course at all times.

Many old gospel songs have compared elements of our Christian faith to a compass. Some songs describe the Bible as a compass that points us in the right direction. Other songs talk of the Holy Spirit as our compass that guides us to Christ and Heaven. There are songs that refer to our conscience as a compass. All of these images have merit. But whether you talk about the Bible or the Holy Spirit or your conscience, all of them give direction only. The compass does not steer the boat. In the end it is up to you to decide the direction of your life. You can choose to ignore or to follow the directions that God gives you.

Matthew 9:9

As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.

Lessons from a Sailboat 10

Lesson 10: Ropes

On a sailboat ropes are called lines. Not all lines are the same. They vary in dimension and quality, depending on their use. The anchor line for example is often made of nylon or polyester and is usually thicker in diameter than the other lines on the boat. The lines used to trim the sails (i.e. adjust it) are called sheets. Those used to hoist the sail are called halyards. These are usually made of Kevlar. Some ropes are stranded and others are braided. All lines are made of thin strands of yarn (some natural some synthetic) that are twisted or braided together to make a strong rope.

Everyone knows that there is strength in numbers. Just as one strand of yarn is weak, so one person trying to live the Christian life in his or her own strength will find themselves weak. No one can live the Christian life on his or her own. By ourselves we are weak. God never intended us to do this alone. He has promised to be with us, and He has put is in the community of believers. On our own we will break, but united to Jesus and in the company of other Christians we are strong.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken

Lessons from a Sailboat 9

Lesson 9: The Rudder Gives Control

One of the most important parts of any boat is the rudder. This is a flat surface, usually made of aluminum and/or wood that is attached to the transom (back end) of the boat directly behind the keel. It is underwater and cannot be seen. Attached to the rudder is either a tiller (a kind of handle) or cables leading to a steering wheel. The rudder is the main control used for changing the direction of the boat. Compared to the size of the boat, the rudder is relatively small, but it is this small part that controls the entire boat.

It is extremely important for a Christian to be in control of his or her life. Nothing turns off unbelievers more quickly than a Christian who does not have self-control. A Christian who cannot control his/her tongue can cause a lot of damage. One who cannot control his/her appetite or sexual desires presents a poor example to others. On the other hand a Christian who demonstrates self control of his/her temper, and patience in the face of adversity is a powerful witness of the power of Christ.

1 Thessalonians 4:4

…each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable

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Lesson 8: The Keel Provides Balance

People who don’t understand how sailboats work often wonder why yachts don’t capsize when they lean over to the side. This leaning is called heeling. Small sailboats like a dingy do sometimes capsize, which is why you might see sailors leaning out over the side to try to prevent that. In a yacht, however, it is not possible to keep the boat upright by moving the crew around. Yachts have a heavy counterweight built into their keel. This counterweight of concrete or steel balances the force of the wind in the sails so that the boat does not tip over.

What keeps you from going “bottom up” in your spiritual life? Winds of adversity will blow; have no doubt about that. There will be times when you will feel that you are about to lose control. There will be times when you will feel swamped. There will be times when you will feel that you are about to experience a “shipwreck.” In such times remember what keeps your life in balance. It is that strong spiritual force that the world cannot see but that you know is there keeping you in place. Instead of desperately trying to balance things yourself, rely on God’s Holy Spirit. He will keep you on an even keel.

Proverbs 3:5

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Lessons from a Sailboat 1

Lesson 1: Different Kinds of Boats

Over the years I have ridden in, borrowed, rented, and owned a number of different kinds of boats. I recall rowboats, and a small punt, both of which I rowed to get anywhere. Needless to say I did not go far in these. There was also a canoe, which required almost as much work at the rowboats. Then there were several small aluminum fishing boats to which I could attach an outboard motor. More fun than a rowboat and I could go farther. And then there were the sailboats. More fun than the aluminum boats and I could stay out overnight and even cook on board. But each boat had a purpose. How boring and impractical life on the water would be if every boat was alike.

The same is true of our lives. We are all different from each other. Each of us has talents and abilities unique to us. We each have different personalities, differnt looks, and different temperments. It would be as unfair to compare ourselves with others as it would be to compare a canoe to a sailboat. As there are different kinds of boats, so too there are different kinds of people. We should not expect others to be like us. And we should not try to be like others. We should learn to appreciate ourselves as part of God's Creation and seek to find our purpose and place in life.

1 Corinthians 12:6
There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

Lessons from a Sailboat 7

Lesson 7: The Mast

The most prominent feature of a sailboat is the mast. This is a tall pole, usually made of aluminum, that rises from the deck. The mast supports the sail and the boom (a shorter pole attached to the underside of the sail). The mast has to be strong to support the force of the wind when it fills the sail. While the sail itself is light, the force of the wind can be tremendous in a strong breeze or gale. It is therefore extremely important for the mast and the system of stays and shrouds that support it to be strong.

In your Christian life also you need a strong support system. The Christian life is not always easy, particularly if you are going to take your stand publicly. Your moral and ethical stand will sometimes clash with popular culture. Some people may be offended by your beliefs. Some decisions you make may cost you your job or deny you a promotion. Some of your friends may no longer associate with you. For all the winds of adversity you face, you will need the strong support system of other believers and your faith is Jesus to see you through.

Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Lessons from a Sailboat 6

Lesson 6: The Purpose of Sails

Sails are what define a sailboat. People stand on the shore and look out at sailboats because of the sails. But sails do more than make a boat look good. They are essential for moving the boat through the water. They have a purpose. They act like the engine in a power boat, except that they draw their power from the wind. On most yachts you will see two sails: A large sail (called the mainsail) attached to a mast, and a smaller sail (called the foresail or jib) attached to a line at the front of the boat. The sails are what drive the boat. Without sails, a sailboat would go nowhere.

The Purpose Driven Life is a popular book that focuses on what drives a Christian to action and service. I like to think that the purpose of our life is like the sails on the sailboat. Without a purpose we will get nowhere. We will be driven by every wind and tide around us, by every popular belief and every fashionable activity. What is your life’s mainsail? What do you consider the main reason you exist? What are your smaller goals? If you are to progress in your faith and life, you need to know your priorities and set your life’s sails to those purposes.

Galatians 4:18

It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always, not just when I am with you.

Lessons from a Sailboat 5

Lesson 5: Choose a Marina

 Having made a commitment and purchased a boat, my next big decision was where to put it. I could not simply park it on my driveway. It was not going to go anywhere there. Sailboats are not like powerboats—you can’t simply launch them and take them out of the water every time you use them. You have to have a dock to tie them to for the season. And if you don’t own one you have to find one, usually at a marina. Putting my boat in a marina was another financial commitment, but it rewarded me with a sheltered harbour, a network of support from other sailors, and times of fellowship and fun with other like-minded people.

As a Christian, you can’t simply park yourself at home and sing “I’m satisfied with Jesus here.” You need to find a spiritual marina, a place where you can find a network of support from other Christians. A place where you can enjoy fellowship with other like-minded people who have also committed their lives to Jesus. You need to find a church where you can find shelter from life’s storms and from where you can launch yourself into service. Look around and find the group that best meets your needs.

Acts 2:46

Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,

Lessons from a Sailboat 4

Lesson 4: Purchase a Boat

Leaning about sailing is exciting. Actually sailing is fun and adventurous. But at some point I had to actually purchase a boat of my own. There is only so much you can do in the classroom. And your friends will tolerate your sailing with them only so long. To be a genuine sailor I not only needed to know how to sail but I had to make a commitment and buy a boat. Fortunately when it comes to good used boats, sailboats are relatively inexpensive. My first sailboat was a 20ft Matilda design. I eventually sold that one and bought another 20 footer, a DS20 design, much roomier and a little faster. I could never know the real freedom of sailing without making that commitment.

The same is true in our Christian life. You can study the Bible, go to church, and meet in a small group with Christian friends. But you will never know the saving grace of God until you make a commitment of your life to Christ. Neither the Bible, nor church, nor your Christian friends can save you. Only Jesus can do that. To be a genuine Christian with a born-again experience you must make that personal commitment to Jesus.

Luke 9:23

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me

Lessons from a Sailboat 3

Lesson 3: Learn to Sail

There are two kinds of learning experiences—book learning and hands-on learning. To learn how to sail I needed both. Book learning taught me the rules of navigation, the names of the different parts of the sailboat, what the different sails and lines were used for, how to read a chart, and a whole lot more useful information. Hands-on learning enabled me to develop a skill that I did not possess before. I learned to hoist the sails, set the sails, sail using a compass, and to feel confident about my boat and myself. I learned not to panic when the boat heeled (tipped to the side). I learned to tack to windward and a whole lot more that can only be learned by doing.

In our Christian life we also need book learning and hands-on learning. The book of course is the Bible. This needs to be our primary source of learning. We can supplement this with reading from commentaries, inspirational books, devotional books, and biographies of great Christians. We also need hands-on learning to develop skills of serving, helping, encouraging, witnessing—even preaching and teaching. The Christian life is not meant to be lived in your head; it is to be lived among others as you demonstrate your Christlike qualities to those around you.

2 Peter 1:5-8

…make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Lessons from a Sailboat 2

Lesson 2: Take a boating course

The Government of Canada requires everyone who uses a boat to earn a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. This card proves that the person has studied the regulations and safety protocols for the use of watercraft in this country. The course is very helpful but it does not teach you how to use the boat you have. For that you need to actually get out on the water. For those of us who use a sailboat there are special skills and specific information about wind and waves that need to be learned. I took 13 weeks of in-class instructions, several days of hands-on instructions form a sailing club and the help of an experienced sailor to get me to the point of feeling confident about my own sailing.

In our Christian life we need good teaching and reliable coaching if we are to grow in our faith and become the Christians we ought to be. I am very grateful to the Sunday school teachers and youth Bible leaders that I had in my formative years, and to the various pastors who led our small church. I am thankful for the opportunity of taking courses at a Bible college. And today I am still a part of a home Bible study group. We can try to “go it alone” as a Christian, but this often results in misinterpretations of Scripture and a Christian life that is not well balanced. To be the best we can be, we need to keep learning from each other as we seek to apply God’s word to our lives.

Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

Lessons from a Sailboat 1

Lesson 1: There are different kinds of boats

Lesson 1: There are different kinds of boats

Over the years I have ridden in, borrowed, rented, and owned a number of different kinds of boats. I recall rowboats, and a small punt, both of which I rowed to get anywhere. Needless to say I did not go far in these. There was also a canoe, which required almost as much work at the rowboats. Then there were several small aluminum fishing boats to which I could attach a outboard motor. More fun than a rowboat and I could go farther. And then there were the sailboats. More fun than the aluminum boats and I could stay out overnight and even cook on board. But each boat had a purpose. How boring and impractical life on the water would be if every boat was alike.

The same is true of our lives. We are all different from each other. Each of us has talents and abilities unique to us. We each have different personalities, different looks, and different temperaments. It would be as unfair to compare ourselves with others as it would be to compare a canoe to a sailboat. As there are different kinds of boats, so too there are different kinds of people. We should not expect others to be like us. And we should not try to be like others. We should learn to appreciate ourselves as part of God's Creation and seek to find our purpose and place in life.

1 Corinthians 12:6
There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.