Chief Operating Officer
A few weeks back, I traveled to the North Shore of Oahu for the Christian Surfers Warm Water Camp Out, eager to make connections, discuss ministry, and ride some amazing waves. Anticipating one of the largest swells in years, I looked forward to challenging myself while maintaining control.
At Haleiwa, I paddled out confidently and caught a few fun waves. The conditions seemed manageable, and I relied on my ability to navigate the lineup. But then the horizon shifted. A massive set loomed, far bigger than I had anticipated. I paddled with everything I had, trying to get outside, but the ocean had other plans. No matter how hard I worked, I kept getting sucked back, trapped in the impact zone. My confidence in my own strength quickly faded as I realized I wasn’t in control. I was completely under-gunned and at the mercy of the sea.
Our walk with Jesus can feel the same. We often approach faith like I did that session — relying on our own strength, thinking we have it under control. We believe our effort — our good works, discipline, or service — earns us a place with Him. But just like my paddling couldn’t outmatch the power of the ocean, our striving will never be enough to earn salvation. The harder we try to prove ourselves, the more we miss the point: Salvation isn’t achieved — it’s received.
The good news? We don’t have to fight for what’s already been freely given. Jesus’ love and grace are gifts, not rewards for performance. The moment we surrender our striving and accept His grace, we find the peace we’ve been searching for.
The reality? The God of the universe loves us beyond measure, not because of what we do but because of who He is. If you’re trying to earn His love or feel unworthy of it, know this: Salvation is freely given — you just have to receive it.
Ephesians 2:8-10
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
