Swimming For My Life

A Powerful Truth About Going Against the Current

A dead thing can go with the stream, but only a living thing can go against it.
― G.K. Chesterton, The Everlasting Man

What a quote, right?

Chesterton’s words allude that it takes effort and intention to go against the current of culture—especially when it comes to doing the right thing.

There was a moment growing up where this quote was more real than I would probably have liked.

You see, I grew up swimming, canoeing, and kayaking in creeks, streams, lakes, and rivers with my dad. There were several times, where we would pack a lunch with some sandwiches and snacks for the day and hit the water.

One particular trip during the summer, we went kayaking down a river following a heavy rain. As a result, this river had quite a strong current, and some heavy falls and rapids in some places. We had a blast!

Toward the end of our river journey, we approached a particularly intense section—the biggest drop we had faced all day. My dad, more experienced on the kayak, went down first to show me the safest route.

Then it was my turn. I took a breath, grabbed my oar, and began paddling.

Here’s the tension, of the story- I lost my balance and flipped out of my kayak. There I was in the water in a current that was rushing, pulling me toward the rapids.

Could I have gone with the current? Yes. I had a helmet and a life vest. But what awaited me downstream? Sharp rocks? A hidden undercurrent? I had no idea. I had read stories of people getting injured or caught between rocks and not being able to get free when they came loose from their raft. I did not want that to be me.

I had a choice: surrender to the current or fight it? I would have to fight with everything I had to swim against it, my kayak and oar were still with in grasp, but this would take effort.

Thankfully, I have always been a solid swimmer, at this point I was a certified Life guard and swam regularly. Once I made my urgent decision, I quickly grabbed my oar and threw it over the rock patch. Then, with all my strength, I did the same with my kayak.

But that was the easy part.

Now, I had to swim to the rocks myself. It felt like swimming on a treadmill—so much effort, yet little progress. It felt like I was swimming for my life.

I may have been just fine going down the fall without my kayak, but at the moment I knew I couldn’t give up. So, I pushed forward, exhausted yet determined.

Much like Dory the fish from “Finding Nemo”- Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming.

After a strenous period of time- I reached the rocks, caught my breath, and composed myself before I would go back towards the rapids. This time, I would make it through without issue.

Looking back, Chesterton’s quote comes alive in that moment. It would have been easier to go with the current—but just as dangerous.

And isn’t that the way of the world? A culture that is trying its best to lead and sway us toward the destinations it prefers. Whether it be beliefs, lifestyles, or burdens, the current of a fallen world is a dangerous place to find comfort.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to more.

Romans 12:2 (NIV) commands us:

Do not conform to the pattern of this world …

God had more in mind when he created you. We aren’t meant to be shaped by the world’s values. Instead, we are called to stand firm, to live differently. This means recognizing that some things, though accepted by culture, are not meant for us.

It may require letting go of certain influences. We need to be praying for wisdom in shedding cultural weights. We have opportunities to actively resist the pull of conformity.

But just as I found refuge on the rock in that river, we too have a Rock to hold onto. Psalm 31:3 (ESV) declares:

For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name's sake you lead me and guide me.

We have a foundation. A place of safety. A Savior who is always present. No matter the current you’re facing, there is freedom and hope in Jesus.

When I was in the river, I had to embrace the rock. I had to climb onto it for rest. Sure I scraped myself a little bit, I was a little bruised to get there, but it was needed. I had to climb onto it to be able to move on and reset. Yeah, I was beat up and exhausted, but I needed that rock.

Perhaps the trials you’re facing right now are pushing you closer to Jesus. As Charles Spurgeon once said:

I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.

I want to invite you to a way of life that relies on the Rock and resists the current of a lost and broken world.

The adventure might take you to unexpected obstacles, but it’s worth it.

Will we make mistakes? Probably. The fact that I flipped my kayak was a mistake. But there was still a path of redemption. There is always a way forward—because we are alive in Christ.

Tips for Going Against the Current of Culture:

1. Check Your Intake
What are you filling your life with? Are there things that need to be limited or cut out? Paul urges us to dwell on what is true, noble, right, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).

2. Fight When Needed
There will be moments where you must take a stand. Draw a line in the sand and choose your direction. Following Jesus will often require courage.

3. Find Rest Upon the Rock
If you’re weary, remember that Jesus is your refuge. He provides a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).

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Scriptures:

• Romans 12:2 – Do not conform to the world’s pattern.

• Psalm 31:3 – The Lord is our Rock and Fortress.

Prayer:

Lord, I want to be someone committed to the way of Jesus. I don’t want to be complacent, just going with the flow of culture. Give me strength, wisdom, and peace to stand firm. I lean on You as my Rock, my refuge, and my guide. Amen.

Feedback:

Let me know in the comments if you have ever had to fight the current of culture? What did you find beneficial in overcoming its momentum?

*A little digital sketch of GK Chesterton