Kristin Hill Taylor

Seeking God as the Author of Every Story

  • Home
  • About
  • Books
    • Peace in the Process
    • Bringing Home More Than Groceries
  • Contact

Floating on faith

April 4, 2018 by Kristin 24 Comments

Rachel is learning to swim. She’s not afraid to go under water. She’s not afraid to jump in. Her confidence is greater than her skills.

But she doesn’t want to stay still when she’s supposed to be floating. She gets in position to float, and then wiggles around, which forces her to sink. Instead of surrendering to stillness that brings control in the water, she wants to take the action into her own hands, which actually gives her less control over her body.

Sometimes I’m like that with my faith.

Instead of being still and letting God work through me, I want to fix and do and plan and control. But God has been teaching me about living rescued and resting in faith.

For me, resting in faith often means slowing down.

I recently heard singer Tauren Wells say something on Annie Downs’ podcast that I can’t shake:

“Rush always leads to ruin. … Everything is instant approval, immediate gratification, and that always leads to ruin. What I’m trying to figure out is if I trust God with the pace, then I can I can actually live from rest and I can get to the reward God has promised me, which by the way, is always Jesus.”

This is what’s hard right now for me: Besides not knowing what I should do more times than I care to admit, parenting exposes all my own sin, which is just plain hard, especially when I’ve got a family depending on me.

I need to let God change my defense mechanisms. Naturally, I want to fight it — everything — which can come across as mean and cold when really I’m just afraid and uncertain. I want to move faster and bark orders like I’m in the one in control and rush any soul work God is in the midst of doing.

“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.”

– 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

I fight the wrong enemy with human words rather than the spiritual battles with Christ. On bad days, I fight my son’s behavior instead of teaching his heart, choose to worry about what might happen instead of trusting the God I know, and allow frustrations to replace truth.

I need to sink into what I know to be true,
stretch out my arms, and float on faith.

{Tweet that.}

*****

It’s been one of those seasons where everything I read and hear is coming back to this lesson in living rescued, in floating in faith. Here are the some of the resources that have been encouraging and teaching me:

  • Annie Downs’ That Sounds Fun Podcast (especially the recent episodes with Brandon Heath and Tauren Wells)
  • “This I Know: Trusting Your Unknown Future to a Known God” by Laura Dingman
  • Love God Greatly’s “Fear & Anxiety: Learning to Overcome with God’s Truth” study
  • “100 Days to Brave: Devotions for Unlocking Your Most Courageous Self” by Annie Downs
  • Brandon Heath’s “Faith Hope Love Repeat” album
  • “Keep a Quiet Heart” by Elisabeth Elliot
  • Ellie Holcomb’s “Red Sea Road” album

*****

#PorchStories friends, earlier this week I shared my review of Kate Motaung’s “A Place to Land: A Story of Longing and Belonging” and am giving away an autographed copy. Be sure to enter to win!

*****

Kristin Hill Taylor - Porch Stories
 Loading InLinkz ...
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • More
  • Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Filed Under: Porch Stories Tagged With: books, faith, life, music, quotes, Rachel, rescued

Comments

  1. Sarah Geringer says

    April 4, 2018 at 6:12 am

    I’m learning that exact same lesson right now, Kristin. I’m still asking, seeking, and knocking, but God is teaching me how to do it from a position of trust rather than striving. It’s a hard lesson to learn after decades of high achieving, but I know He will teach me well.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 4, 2018 at 6:59 am

      It’s definitely a hard lesson, but I’m so thankful God keeps working with us. I’m glad you’re here, Sarah!

      Reply
  2. Joanne Viola says

    April 4, 2018 at 7:01 am

    It’s amazing how the study is teaching us to live from a position of trusting God rather than trying to keep ourselves afloat. Precious how we learn through our children. I have often said they grow us up In Christ as they themselves are growing up 🙂

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 4, 2018 at 7:05 am

      God is using so many things to encourage me to trust God, and not keep myself afloat. But, goodness, my natural tendencies distract me sometimes. I’m thankful for his grace again and again. I’m thankful for your encouragement during this season especially. xo.

      Reply
  3. Becky Hastings says

    April 4, 2018 at 7:21 am

    It’s always interesting to me how God drives things home for us at just the right times. Whether it’s something we hear, read, see or even just someone we run into, He always knows just what we need.

    And this idea of living out of rest sounds like balm to my soul!

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 4, 2018 at 7:23 am

      God knows my soul and mind need the repetition. I’m so grateful for His timing and provisions. Thanks for being here, Becky!

      Reply
  4. Simply Beth says

    April 4, 2018 at 7:30 am

    “I fight the wrong enemy with human words rather than the spiritual battles with Christ.”

    This stood out likely because I just finished a study of Ephesians and have also been reading a book that speaks to this too.

    I’ve been thinking of you lots as I dive back into writing and as I read different articles. One recently on Facebook and finding a community group to be part of… of course I thought of yours. Not sure why I’m hesitating to jump back in (groups, link ups, etc). But again, when I think of both I think of the beautiful communities you have formed.

    Hugs to you friend. Miss you.
    Beth

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 4, 2018 at 7:34 am

      I love Ephesians, and it’s come up often in my life lately. I love that you’re writing again. I hope to connect more with you soon – online and in real life. You’re welcome here always, but I think you already know that. Love you, friend. xo

      Reply
  5. Michele Morin says

    April 4, 2018 at 8:10 am

    I love Ellie Holcomb’s music.
    And, because I learned to swim in my twenties, I still remember that feeling of learning to float and trusting the water. Thanks for this parable today!

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 4, 2018 at 8:29 am

      You’re welcome, Michele! Thanks for being here! xo

      Reply
  6. SUSAN SHIPE says

    April 4, 2018 at 8:15 am

    Rush turns to ruin. THAT speaks to me. The photo of Rachel floating so still is beyond precious.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 4, 2018 at 8:30 am

      It is still speaking to me too. I’m glad you’re here, Susan!

      Reply
  7. Barbara H. says

    April 4, 2018 at 12:00 pm

    What a great analogy! We so often think everything depends on our efforts rather than resting on Him.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 5, 2018 at 7:15 am

      I’m certainly of trying and striving before trusting. Watching my girl learn to swim has been so encouraging to my faith. Thanks for being here, Barbara!

      Reply
  8. Tara says

    April 4, 2018 at 2:39 pm

    “Red Sea Road” is such a stellar album. I cannot get enough of it…and it truly got me through last Spring/summer when I unexpectedly had job change in my life etc. I need to listen to that Tauren Wells podcast. I have heard such great things about it.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 5, 2018 at 7:15 am

      It’s also an album that I come back to over and over again, and I get the feeling it will always be like that. I’m glad you’re here, Tara!

      Reply
  9. Lisa notes says

    April 5, 2018 at 12:02 pm

    This is true for me too, Kristin: “For me, resting in faith often means slowing down.” I haven’t been very good at it lately. This season of life isn’t allowing rest in big ways, so I’m having to snatch it in smaller chunks. 🙂

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 5, 2018 at 4:14 pm

      Oh, yes, I get that. And sometimes I dismiss the value of the small chunks of rest, but they’re always worth it. I’m glad you’re here, Lisa!

      Reply
  10. Lauren Sparks says

    April 5, 2018 at 2:14 pm

    Love the word picture of floating! Thanks so much. And for always sharing your resources.

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 5, 2018 at 4:14 pm

      Hope you love some of those resources like I do! Thanks for being here, Lauren!

      Reply
  11. Britta says

    April 5, 2018 at 7:46 pm

    Kristin,

    I’m wiggly, too! Love this post. 🙂

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 6, 2018 at 8:48 am

      Britta! I’m so glad to see you here, my friend! xo

      Reply
  12. Jennifer says

    April 6, 2018 at 5:31 pm

    I really need to sink into what I know, too!! Your posts are so practical – and a blessing! Have a great weekend!

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      April 7, 2018 at 6:51 pm

      Oh that’s nice of you to say, Jennifer! Thanks for being here!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let’s Connect

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • RSS
  • Twitter

About Me

Telling stories is my therapy and I love sharing them with friends on my porch.

The main characters in my stories are my entrepreneur husband, our high school girl who never forgets, our middle school boy who has no fear, and our joy-filled first-grade girl. As we live out our stories, we seek God as the author of them all.

Learn more about my story here.

Subscribe for Updates

Recent Posts

  • How & why to travel with kids
  • From snow to sand
  • Books of 2022
  • How to enjoy winter days at home
  • How to cook new recipes

Join the Conversation

Join the Conversation

On Instagram

I know traveling is a privilege, but I will always I know traveling is a privilege, but I will always tell you: Take the trip. It may not be easy or convenient, but it’s always worth it. And always take lots of snacks along for the ride! 

HOW & WHY TO TRAVEL WITH KIDS is #ontheblog today. The post includes some of our travel experiences, tips for including the kids, and a tip to make it more affordable. Plus there are links to posts about some of our recent trips. 

#linkinbio #bloggerlife #momlife #travelwithkids #adventurers #getoutside #travel #travellife #travelers #choosingJOY #favoritethings
I know, “everyone” is reading “Spare” by P I know, “everyone” is reading “Spare” by Prince Harry. But I also keep hearing different opinions about it. So here’s mine!

I am intrigued by the royal family and I liked watching “Suits,” just so you know my very loose interest. I had also watched the @netflix documentary Harry and Meghan released. 

Short answer: I really enjoyed listening to this book. 

An heir, then a spare. Deep grief as a child when his mom dies that he doesn’t really confront until he’s older. An institution that governs every decision in his life yet doesn’t protect him when he felt like he needed it. That’s some heartbreaking makings of a good story. And I appreciate Prince Harry telling it — even though I’m sure parts were incredibly difficult. I also appreciate why he and Meghan did what they did and are trying to establish new, different roots. 

Ultimately, this book is about death and life and all the moments in between. I’d recommend listening to it because his voice is a good one. 

One minor, silly complaint: There are 232 chapters, although they’re numbered starting with one in each of the three sections. That makes the audiobook not flow quite as well as it would otherwise because most of them are just a few minutes long. 

I give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and I’d love to hear what you think because, you know, everybody is reading it! #KHTreads #bookstagram #booklover #readersofinstagram #audiobooks #audible #princeharry
We are all in for basketball season! Tonight was @ We are all in for basketball season! Tonight was @murraystateuniv Spirit Night at the @memgrizz game. We had some pre-game fun with friends, watched the Grizzlies come back from 19 down to win, and witnessed Ja Morant’s triple double.

#memphisgrizzlies #basketballseason #NBA #TeamTaylor #bettertogether #weekending #favoritethings #RacerNation #MurrayState #WeAreRacers
Cheering for our Racers — and, really, most ever Cheering for our Racers — and, really, most everything in life — is more fun with friends! What an awesome atmosphere at the CFSB Center today with a Murray State win, Ja Morant in the arena, and more memories.

#RacerNation #MurrayState #collegebasketball #basketballseason #bettertogether #WeAreRacers
I’ve worn a favorite sweatshirt that says “Let I’ve worn a favorite sweatshirt that says “Let heaven and nature sing” twice this week. I may not be singing Christmas carols anymore, but I still felt the depths of winter this week. The sweatshirt seemed right. 

The sun didn’t shine much this week, although seeing on Friday as we wrap up the work and school week was welcomed. It’s mostly been cold and gray. It’s felt like winter. 

A lingering tension needs resolution and understanding, but honestly the gap between seems so vast. I crave slow time at home and meals around our table. I miss some friends and was reminded of the heartache that can come with community, but I also felt the deep appreciation of friendship and remembered the beauty of sharing this life with others. I was excited for an invitation and easily accepted it. I started a new habit (hopefully) walking with a friend. 

While driving through my days, I remember how uncertainty is what makes me look up. I remember my Creator when I am slapped in the face with the reality I’m not actually in control. I remember (again) to surrender. 

Goodness happens in the gray of winter. Life may look and feel different, but new life is always preparing to break through the cracks of the ground. The gloom that tempts us to look down doesn’t last long when we believe the sun will break through the icy trees and the fog will lift. 

This is hope. Even in winter. Thank God for it all. Let’s let heaven and nature sing. 

#countryliving #latergram #livingfaithfully #choosingJOY #reallife #weekending
I heard mixed reactions about this book from two d I heard mixed reactions about this book from two different friends, but I enjoyed it! 

I liked the backward timeline, although I was uncertain about how it would work until the end. Some of the twists and connections were so good! 

I also liked the bigger ideas Gillian McAllister tackles: We miss things when we are living our life at our normal pace. What if we could go back? What would be notice that would change our reality? And, of course, perhaps, there would be unintended consequences. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ It did get a little slow in the middle, but the end and beginning are quite good! #KHTreads #bookstagram #booklover #kindlebooks #kindleoasis #readersofinstagram
This about sums up motherhood: My teenage girl in This about sums up motherhood: My teenage girl in the middle rebounding and playing hard and little sister photobombing the moment! 

Honestly, parenting has been hard lately. Nothing major. But so constant and always adjusting. 

Even so, I love watching them on the court and in life. There is so much excitement and goodness among the repetition and exhaustion. 

This is real life. And those are our 10-0 Lady Lions out there. 🦁💛

@ncca.lions #momlife #reallife #basketballseason #momconfessions #livingfaithfully #girlmom #firstborn #thirdchild
I finished studying Colossians today with my Prece I finished studying Colossians today with my Precept group. Paul wrote this letter to an established church that was still growing and learning and maturing in the faith — like us all.  I really loved this study because it spoke right into my life with encouragement for knowing Christ, walking in wisdom and truth, praying continually, letting peace rule, and giving grace. Plus Paul deeply loved his people. 

“Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” — Colossians 2:6-7

Too often I step out of God’s presence for two minutes while are loading up the van in the morning or I’m rushing kids to bed. Too often I don’t surrender my fleshy desires and feelings to the One who holds this whole wide world in His hands. Too often I think my plans are worth holding onto tightly. Too often I think I can bring peace to my household, minivan, or dinner table. 

But real peace passes all my understanding. It rests in God’s wisdom and knowledge alone. How amazing we have access to that, thanks to Jesus. How easily I forget where I’m rooted. 

I want to let peace rule — in my home, in my head, and in my heart. 

Today while I was driving, I noticed how lovely the road, land, and sky looked. But today was really windy, like feel-it-move-my-vehicle and knock-over-trash-cans windy. It almost felt deceptive with the beauty before me, but, really, that’s like life. 

Sometimes it seems I have it together. People know my gifts of organizing information and people. I show up on time and am responsible. But so many thoughts and feelings are swirling in my mind. I replay conversations and fight against the same insecurities from the previous day. 

I feel both lovely and like my swirling mind could knock me over at any moment. And that’s why I needed God, particularly through His words through Paul to the Colossians. 

#livingfaithfully #faithlife #churchlife #reallife #countryliving
This girl has been complaining of a sore throat th This girl has been complaining of a sore throat the last couple of days, but she hasn’t had a fever or any other symptoms so I kept telling her she was fine. Truth be told, she a bit of a hypochondriac and generally happy, so it’s hard to tell if she sick sometimes. 

The folks at Aligned Health took care of her this afternoon and are treating her for strep or whatever bacteria is making her throat look and feel rough. 

I’m thankful for access to medical care and an unexpected night at home.

#momlife #thirdchild #reallife #momconfessions #livingfaithfully #choosingJOY #sickday
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Favorites

Categories

Archives

Copyright © 2023 Kristin Hill Taylor | Design by Traci Michele | Development by MRM