If you live near or visit the beach often, you must be aware of rip tides. You need to know the signs; and have a plan for escape if you are caught in these terrifying bands of water that can quickly pull you far from the safety of the shore. Panic is a natural reaction when you do not understand that these currents are localized and narrow, and calm waters are just a few feet away. Out of fear and a lack of knowledge, you may panic and start frantically swimming against the tide, exhausting yourself; doing exactly the opposite of what you should do.In a rip current, the secret is to stay calm, call out for help, and then swim parallel to the shore until a lifeguard arrives or the current naturally dissipates to the point where you can easily turn and swim toward shore. You are then safe, a little rattled, but wiser, stronger, and more aware of the pitfalls of swimming in the ocean. You also need to have a plan for the rip tides of life.When adverse circumstances come, and they will, you are wise to stay calm, call out to Jesus—the ultimate lifeguard, and listen closely as He gently coaches you through the turbulent waters. Trials and tribulations, though sometimes terrifying, are also temporary. Sometimes, you can’t get over or around them, but must go through them. God never promised a life of ease, but calm is just aprayer away. Keep your focus on the Lord.