What Kind of Boat Are We On?

By Elizabeth Brannen

Recently, I sat under Melissa Kruger’s Bible teaching, and she had us contemplate the type of boat we think we’re on. Our expectations strongly shape our experiences. As Christians, we can easily become disillusioned or disappointed when life is difficult—a sign that our expectations may be misplaced.

Are you expecting the Christian life to be like a cruise ship—where sumptuous meals, endless entertainment, and leisure time abound? Where others are at our beck and call to ensure our experience is a delight?

Or are you expecting the Christian life to be like a battleship—where we are engaged in spiritual warfare against an enemy who prowls like a lion (1 Peter 5:8–9)? Where we are told to be alert, take courage, and stand firm?

Scripture describes the Christian life as a race (1 Corinthians 9:24–27), highlighting the need for self-control and discipline. It is also called a battle (Ephesians 6:10–18), focusing on the need to put on the armor of God and rely on His strength as we wrestle against spiritual forces. In addition, the Christian life is compared to childbirth (Romans 8:22), emphasizing that the whole creation groans as in the pains of labor, awaiting the redemption of our bodies.

Though storms rise and battles rage around us, the outcome is sure. We have no reason to fear because Jesus is the Victor. His triumph is certain, and if we are in Christ, then our victory is certain as well. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, link arms with one another, and fight the good fight.

So what kind of boat are we on? Not a cruise ship built for comfort, but a battleship built for mission—commanded by a worthy and victorious Captain who has already charted the course and calmed the seas for us. Our call is not to lounge on deck, but to man our posts with faith, courage, and joy until we reach the safe harbor of His eternal kingdom.