What am I doing?

In this book author John Ortberg poses the question:  
"What am I doing that I could not do apart from the power of God?"

It's a good question.
Ortberg suggests if you don't have an answer to that question then perhaps you are "seriously under-challenged".  Just think about it. How often do you (and me) tend to know (or at least think we know) that we can handle whatever comes our way?  Consequently we have a sense of strength and confidence in our abilities.

Until the bottom falls out.

Ortberg writes about the Apostle Peter and his walk on water. He speaks of the faith Peter had to possess in order to take that first step out of the boat. But because it was water walking, something we all KNOW we cannot do, Peter's faith had to be in Jesus.

He had to take the first step out of the boat before Jesus could lend his support, or help Peter actually walk on water.

Many artists renderings of this event place Peter sinking in the water. And he did.

But before he sank into the water - he had to step out of the boat and walk. Commentaries say that when Peter had his eyes on Jesus he was able to walk. When he took his eyes away and focused on his circumstances -- he sank. Peter is often depicted at failing.

I don't think so. Taking the first step is often the hardest. Thinking, considering options, making plans and setting goals - that's the easy part. Taking the first step - actually starting. That's the challenge.

Now I agree, taking the next step, and all that follow can be tough, too. Keeping my eyes on Jesus and where he is leading is primary.

Back to the original question -  "What am I doing that I could not do apart from the power of God?"

Looking at my circumstances, relying on God for direction, and finding the courage to take the first step in following him.