The underwater chains

Another burning man, standing up to his kness in steadily rising water. As the water rises the fire is extinguished, much to the man's distress. But he can't do anything, because he's is chained in place. He struggles a lot, and gasps for a few final breaths before the water covers his head. The fire now completely out he concentrates on survival, still trying to free himself from the chains. Eventually he gives up and cannot hold his breath any longer. He opens his mouth expecting water to rush in and fill his lungs. But he finds that he can breathe perfectly well. In fact, this water gives his a new strength. And he tries to break the chains again. But he wears himself out again. Finally he gives up. At that moment that he stops trying, he bursts into flames again- the chains are blown apart and he is free at last, and the fire continues to burn, even under water.

Stop trying to protect yourself from the life giving water. Even when it feels like you're going to drown, let it in. Then stop trying to break your chains. As soon as you stop striving in your own strength God's strength will take over. Our efforts are extinguished by the water, but God's fire burns in the water.

Fire is not one of the fruits of the spirit, but peace is...