Small Regular Deposits

On January 15th, 2009, an airplane made an emergency crash landing on the Hudson River after hitting a flock of Canadian geese during takeoff. It is called The Miracle on the Hudson as all 150 passengers and 5 crew members survived.

The pilot, Captain Sullenberger, was later asked how he managed such a perfect water landing. I find his answer interesting.

 "One way of looking at this might be that for 42 years, I've been making small, regular deposits in this bank of experience, education and training. And on January 15, the balance was sufficient so that I could make a very large withdrawal."

Although it was a miracle that all lives were saved, God used the pilot's experience. He still did his best to land safely. Like he said, all his previous experiences had prepared him for this moment.

I like the idea of small regular deposits in the bank of experience, education and training. We can apply it spiritually. Think of Joseph. When he became the prime minister of Egypt, he was ready. He had made regular deposits of trust in God, integrity and faithfulness in his work. Then when his big opportunity came, he was prepared.

And there's David. He learned to trust God as a shepherd boy and fight wild animals. When he faced a giant enemy of Israel, he made a withdrawal from his "bank", and it was sufficient.

I like this verse from Ezra 7:10.

“For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.”

When we learn and hide God's Word in our hearts and put it into practice in our lives, we'll be ready to teach and share it with others. We'll be able to withdraw from our bank of knowledge and memory. If we don't deposit it, it won't be there to withdraw from.

When we memorize, study and meditate on God's Word, we are making deposits. Then when challenges and trials come, we'll be able to make large withdrawals.

God is not limited, and He can do miracles regardless of us, but He does promise that when we hear God's Word and do it, we are preparing for the future storms (Wise and Foolish man). We are making deposits that we will be able to withdraw from.

So, fill your "bank" with regular deposits. You never know when you'll need to make a big withdrawal! And if you have children, make small regular deposits in their bank. It's the best investment you can make.