Devotions for a Busy Business Person, no. 299 – Sailing the boat

Last week, we spoke about building your boat. Today, we sail it.

In business, ministry, and life, we often wish for calm seas, clear skies, and predictable currents. Yet most of us quickly discover that leadership feels less like driving on a highway and more like sailing a boat. Three things will keep us on course.  

Reverence as the tiller: Reverence keeps our direction true. It is the quiet, steady orientation of the heart toward God. In the noise of markets, deadlines, and decisions, reverence asks: “Am I still aligned with the One who set the course?” Without reverence, we drift, even if the sails are full.

Faith as the keel: The keel is mostly unseen, yet it provides stability when storms arise. In the same way, faith steers us when uncertainty increases, funding fluctuates, or plans change. Faith does not remove the waves; it keeps us from flipping over in them.

Stewardship as the cargo: We do not sail empty. We carry people, responsibilities, capital, opportunities, and callings. These are trusts to steward. Wise leaders look for help from the crew, using the gifts God has given their shipmates. The leader does not need to sail the boat alone. 

My grandfather gave me a Dutch tile that, translated, says,

“God does not grant us a smooth voyage, just a safe harbour.”

The tile was cracked and later glued together, more beautiful for the scar in the porcelain, a symbol of my own journey. The voyage is often fraught. But the destination is secure in Christ.

“(God) stilled the storm to a whisper;
the waves of the sea were hushed.
They were glad when it grew calm,
and he guided them to their desired haven.”” – Psalm 107:29–30

God gave you the resources to build your boat and the skill to sail it. What an absolute privilege to sail on the Waters of Life on your boat of God-given calling! Yes, the waves crash and the sea roils. But the Holy Spirit fills your sails, and Jesus as your Morning Star gives you direction (Revelation 22:16).

“And Jesus was a sailor when he walked upon the water”
Leonard Cohen – Suzanne

Even in the storms of running your business, you just might find Someone walking on the waters toward you. Onwards, then, to the safe harbour. Matthew 14:25–27. 

Prayer

Lord of wind and wave,
When the seas rise,
fill our sails with Your Spirit,
fix our eyes on Christ,
and guide us safely to the haven You have prepared.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.