Faith

Faith is not a concept we discuss in Sunday school and forget about Monday morning. Faith is the heartbeat of our relationship with God, the oxygen we breathe when life gets suffocating, the anchor that holds us steady when storms rage around us. These seven Bible stories about faith aren’t just historical accounts – they are living testimonies that speak directly into our struggles today. 1. Abraham – Faith That Steps Into the Unknown Hebrews 11:8 (ESV) “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.” God tells Abraham to pack up everything and leave. No address, no map, no timeline. Just “Go, and I will show you.” Abraham [Father of many nations] could have demanded details, could have negotiated terms, could have waited for a clearer picture. Instead, he packed his bags. This is what faith looks like when it’s raw and real. Abraham trusted the voice of God more than his own understanding. He walked away from security because he knew the One calling him was trustworthy. Brothers and sisters, sometimes God calls us to move without giving us the full itinerary! Faith Truth: Real faith doesn’t wait for all the answers. It responds to God’s voice with immediate obedience. 2. Moses – Faith That Makes the Impossible Possible Hebrews 11:29 (ESV) “By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned.” The Israelites were trapped. Behind them, Pharaoh’s army charging with murderous intent. In front of them, the Red Sea stretching endlessly. Panic everywhere. But Moses lifted his staff, and God split the waters like a curtain! Can you imagine walking between those walls of water? Every step required faith. The ground was dry, but the threat was real. One moment of doubt, one hesitation, and they could have been crushed. But they kept walking because Moses believed God’s promise of deliverance. Faith Truth: Faith doesn’t just pray about impossibilities – it walks through them. God makes a way where there seems to be no way! 3. Noah – Faith That Builds Before the Storm Hebrews 11:7 (ESV) “By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark…” Noah [Rest/Comfort] spent years building a massive boat while his neighbors mocked him. “Where’s the flood, Noah?” they probably asked. “You’ve lost your mind!” But Noah kept hammering, kept building, kept trusting. There was no weather forecast predicting rain. No meteorologist confirming the coming storm. Just God’s word and Noah’s obedience. Day after day, board by board, he prepared for what God had promised. When the rain finally came, his neighbors understood too late. Faith Truth: Faith prepares in seasons of peace for storms that haven’t arrived yet. Obedience often comes before understanding. 4. The Woman With the Issue of Blood – Faith That Reaches for Healing Matthew 9:21–22 (NIV) “She said to herself, ‘If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.’ Jesus turned and saw her. ‘Take heart, daughter,’ he said, ‘your faith has healed you.'” Twelve years of suffering. Twelve years of doctors who couldn’t help. Twelve years of being labeled “unclean” and pushed to the margins of society. But this precious woman heard about Jesus and something stirred in her heart. Hope. Faith. Desperation mixed with divine expectation. She didn’t need a front-row seat or a personal audience. She just needed to touch the hem of His garment. In that crowd, pressed on every side, she reached out in faith and touched the Healer. Immediately, power flowed, and her body was made whole! Faith Truth: Faith doesn’t wait for permission or perfect circumstances. Sometimes it quietly reaches for Jesus in the middle of chaos. 5. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego – Faith That Won’t Compromise Daniel 3:18 (NIV) “But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods…” King Nebuchadnezzar gave them an ultimatum: bow to his golden statue or burn in the fiery furnace. These three Hebrew boys – Shadrach [Command of Aku], Meshach [Who is what Aku is], and Abednego [Servant of Nego] – didn’t flinch. They didn’t negotiate. They didn’t compromise. Their faith wasn’t based on what God would do for them. It was anchored in who God is. “Our God can deliver us,” they declared, “but even if He doesn’t, we still won’t bow!” That’s the kind of faith that makes hell nervous and heaven proud! Faith Truth: Faith stands firm even when the outcome is uncertain. It’s not about the result – it’s about remaining faithful to the One who is faithful. 6. Peter Walking on Water – Faith That Dares to Try Matthew 14:29 (NIV) “Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” The storm was fierce, the waves were high, but Jesus was walking on water like it was solid ground. Peter [Rock/Stone] saw Jesus and said, “Lord, if that’s you, let me come to you on the water.” And Jesus said one word: “Come.” Peter stepped out of that boat and walked on water! Yes, he eventually sank when fear crept in, but for those precious moments, he did the impossible. While the other disciples stayed in the boat, Peter dared to try. And when he started sinking, Jesus immediately reached out and caught him. Faith Truth: Faith tries even when it’s scared. And when faith falters, Jesus is always there to catch us. 7. The Centurion – Faith That Recognizes True Authority Matthew 8:8 (NIV) “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” This Roman centurion had power, influence, and authority in the natural realm. But when he encountered Jesus, he recognized a higher authority. He didn’t

The wheels have touched down. After a long flight filled with turbulence, control tower instructions, a few emergencies, and plenty of trust, the aircraft is back on the ground. But the journey isn’t over just yet. Taxiing in may seem like the quietest, most uneventful part of the flight, but it’s still an essential part of the process and it holds some of the most powerful spiritual parallels for our lives. You’ve Landed, Now What? Maybe you’ve just come through a difficult season. The diagnosis, the heartbreak, the burnout, the unexpected turbulence—yet somehow, by God’s grace, you’re still here. You’ve landed. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to switch off and forget everything. Even after a safe landing, the pilot doesn’t jump out of the cockpit. The passengers don’t just rush off. There’s still a sequence to follow—a safe and intentional process of taxiing in. And spiritually, it’s the same. Just because you’ve made it through doesn’t mean the work is done. Emergency Evacuations and Leaving the Baggage Behind One of the most repeated instructions in emergency landings is this: Leave your baggage behind. In the moment of crisis, nothing is more important than getting everyone out safely. Not the suitcase, not the laptop, not the shopping bag from duty-free. None of it is worth a life. The same is true in our spiritual journey. Sometimes, after an emergency, after heartbreak, betrayal, failure – we’re still clutching the baggage. Regret, shame, bitterness, pride. But to move forward, to walk off the plane and into healing, you have to leave the baggage behind. Hebrews 12:1 says: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” You can’t step into your next without laying down what was never meant to be carried in the first place. Rest and Reset After every flight, the aircraft doesn’t immediately load up and head out again. The pilots rest. The crew disembark. The aircraft is parked, powered down, and cared for. No matter how well the flight went, rest is necessary. In the same way, after spiritual journeys, seasons of high stress, or long battles of faith, we need rest. Not laziness, not disengagement – but intentional rest. A sabbath for the soul. Even Jesus took time to withdraw and pray. The disciples were instructed to rest after ministry. “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” – Mark 6:31 (NIV) Rest isn’t weakness – it’s wisdom. Time for Maintenance Every post-flight routine includes inspections. The plane may have landed safely, but that doesn’t mean there weren’t issues. The maintenance logbook is updated. Every anomaly is reported. Things are checked, repaired, recalibrated. We should be doing the same in our lives. Maybe the turbulence uncovered some pride. Maybe the emergency exposed fear. Maybe the instruments – your faith, your discernment, your patience – need calibration. Let the Holy Spirit run the diagnostics. Allow God to reveal what needs healing, realignment, or rebuilding. “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” – Psalm 139:23 Don’t skip maintenance. You may be functional, but are you fit to fly again? The Journey Begins Again Once the crew is rested, the maintenance complete, and the logbook signed off – a new journey begins. The plane that landed will take off again, just like you. Your story doesn’t end when you land. Your testimony becomes part of someone else’s courage. Your healing makes you a safe place for others. Your scars, your survival, your growth – it all prepares you for what’s next. God didn’t bring you this far just to end your journey on the tarmac. He’s preparing you to fly again. Final Thoughts Taxiing in is a gentle reminder that even in the slow, quiet moments, God is still at work. He’s guiding you to your next gate, your next mission, your next departure. But before that, He invites you to rest, reflect, and be restored. So take a deep breath. You made it through. You trusted the tower. You braced for impact. You left the baggage behind. And now, you’re being readied for what’s next. Because in faith, like in flight, there’s always another mission ahead. Are you ready for the next takeoff? John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

There’s something powerful about a plane that’s made it through the climb, endured turbulence, and now begins its descent. The cabin is calm, the passengers are relaxed, and the airport lights begin to appear in the distance. But here’s the thing, just because the runway is in sight doesn’t mean the journey is over. In fact, the final approach can still be one of the most dangerous parts of the flight. ‘So beware if you think it could never happen to you, lest your pride becomes your downfall.’ – 1 Corinthians 10:12 One real-life reminder of this came from the crash of Asiana Airlines Flight 214 in 2013. On approach to San Francisco International Airport, the crew misjudged the aircraft’s speed and descent rate. Despite clear weather and a visible runway, they struck the seawall just short of the landing strip. Three people lost their lives, and many others were injured. They were so close, yet tragedy still found them. It’s a sober reminder: in both aviation and faith, finishing well takes just as much attention, if not more – than starting strong. Landing with Damage There are times in life when we reach the end of a season, a ministry, a relationship, or a calling, and we’re not in perfect condition. Maybe some instruments are broken. Maybe we’ve picked up wounds along the way. Perhaps we’ve lost some altitude or control. But the goal is not a perfect landing, it’s a safe one. In aviation, pilots are trained to land even with failed instruments or mechanical issues. They run through specific emergency landing checklists, communicating with the control tower every step of the way. They declare their situation, adjust their approach, and sometimes must instruct passengers to brace for impact. It’s not the smooth landing they hoped for, but it’s still a landing. What’s Your Spiritual Checklist? As we approach the end of a season in life, we need to check in: Just like a pilot runs through a final approach checklist, we need to be intentional about how we finish what God has entrusted to us. We don’t drift into a good ending, we land there, carefully. Communication With the Tower Even during landing, the pilot never stops communicating with the control tower. In fact, this phase is one of the most communication-heavy parts of the flight. Altitude, distance, speed, and status updates are shared regularly. In the same way, don’t stop talking to God as you near the end of something. Whether it’s the end of a job, a ministry season, or even life itself, your relationship with God must remain active. Let Him guide your descent. Let Him tell you when to adjust, slow down, or hold. Don’t assume you can coast to the finish. “Better is the end of a thing than its beginning.” – Ecclesiastes 7:8 (ESV) Brace for the Bumps Sometimes, even when everything seems in place, the landing gets bumpy. You might hit some emotional turbulence. Old fears might resurface. Doubts, weariness, even a sense of regret may try to creep in. Don’t panic. Brace yourself in faith. Just like passengers are told to sit upright, fasten their seatbelts, and prepare for touchdown, we need to be spiritually alert and secure as we approach the close of any chapter. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV) Faithfulness, Not Flawlessness Let’s be honest—very few landings are flawless. But they don’t have to be. God is not calling us to be perfect, but faithful. To finish what He started in us with courage, humility, and dependence on Him. Whether you’re nearing the end of a project, a season of service, a personal journey, or life itself, ask yourself—am I finishing strong? This isn’t the time to get careless. It’s not the time to relax your convictions or stop checking in with the Lord. It’s the time to lean in, stay focused, and trust your training. Because a good takeoff is important, but a safe landing brings you home. And when the wheels touch down, and the brakes are applied, and the aircraft slows to a halt, you’ll realise: you made it. Final Thought You’ve flown through the unknown, survived turbulence, trusted your instruments, declared your emergencies, and followed the voice from the tower. Now, it’s time to land. Even if your approach is shaky, God is faithful to bring you safely to where you’re meant to be. The runway is in sight. Stay alert. Stay connected. Finish strong. The next post: Taxiing In – Embracing What’s Next John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

We’ve talked about Mayday moments. Those sudden life emergencies that shake you and force you to cry out. But once the distress call goes out, what happens next? In aviation, pilots are trained to respond to emergencies using three clear steps: Aviate, Navigate, Communicate. These words might seem simple, but in a high-stress situation, they become your anchor. Your checklist. Your survival plan. Let’s break it down and talk about what this means for our walk with God. 1. Aviate – Fly the Plane The first priority in any emergency is to keep the aircraft under control. No matter what happens, the pilot must keep flying. You can’t respond to a fire, engine failure or loss of communication if the plane itself is falling out of the sky. Spiritually, when crisis hits, the first thing we must do is hold steady. Stay grounded in Christ. Keep breathing. Pray. Return to the basics of your faith. Don’t abandon the cockpit of your soul. This isn’t about doing something big, it’s about staying alive spiritually. Keep trusting. Keep reading. Keep worshipping. Your instinct may be to panic or freeze, but this is the time to cling tightly to what you know is true. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1 2. Navigate – Know Where You’re Headed Once the aircraft is stable, the pilot must assess the situation and chart the best course. Are we heading toward danger? Is there a safe place to land? What’s the nearest airport? In life, emergencies can disorient us. Pain clouds our vision. Fear messes with our judgement. But God is still in control, and His Word still lights our path. Even in the middle of chaos, take a moment to ask: where am I going? Where is God leading me through this? “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 3. Communicate – Call for Help After flying and navigating, the next step is communication. Pilots must let the control tower know what’s happening. They must speak clearly, share their intentions and receive guidance. Too many of us try to handle emergencies in silence. But isolation is dangerous. We need to talk to God and sometimes, we need to reach out to trusted people around us. Call your spiritual control tower. Speak to your Father. Reach out to a friend, a mentor, your community. Let someone know what you’re facing. “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7 PIOSEE – A Checklist for the Storm Beyond the first response steps, pilots use a structured checklist called PIOSEE to work through complex in-flight problems. It keeps their minds focused and their actions intentional. Here’s how it applies to us in a spiritual emergency: P – PlanTake a moment to gather yourself. Think clearly. Open your Bible. Pray. Let God remind you of His promises. I – IdentifyWhat’s the actual issue? Not just the symptom, but the root. Is it fear, unbelief, disappointment, shame? O – OptionsWhat are the possible paths forward? Begin seeking wisdom. God will often give you clarity step by step. S – SelectChoose the way that aligns with God’s Word and peace. Don’t rush, but don’t stay paralysed either. E – ExecuteMove forward in obedience. Take that step, however small, in faith. E – EvaluateAfter acting, stop and reflect. Is your heart settled? Is God confirming this path? Adjust as needed. PIOSEE Aviation Use Spiritual Parallel P – Plan Have a plan of action Rehearse God’s promises & renew your mind (Romans 12:2) I – Identify Identify the issue Discern the real problem – not just symptoms (James 1:5) O – Options Consider alternatives Seek God for wisdom and direction (Proverbs 3:5–6) S – Select Choose the best option Obey God’s voice and take a faith step E – Execute Carry it out confidently Act in obedience and faith (James 2:17) E – Evaluate Review and adjust as needed Reflect, pray, and keep in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25) Some Instruments You’ll Find in a Cockpit Just like in life, pilots rely on instruments to make good decisions when the weather turns bad or visibility drops. These include: Each of these must be checked during preflight checks and maintained through routine inspections. In the same way, our spiritual disciplines, relationships, and beliefs must be regularly examined. You can have all the right instruments, but if they’re not working, or you don’t know how to use them, you’re still in danger. And even if they are working, without the guidance of the control tower, you may still crash. The Full Armour of God – Your Spiritual Instruments Ephesians 6 tells us to put on the full armour of God: These are your spiritual flight instruments. Each one helps you stand firm. Each one is essential. But even when you’re fully equipped, you still need to stay connected to the One giving you direction. Your strength is not in the armour alone, but in the One who provides it. “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10 Final Thoughts Emergencies will come. Mayday moments are part of the journey. But when they do, you don’t have to crash. There is a way to respond with wisdom and peace. Aviate – Keep flying. Don’t give up on your faith.Navigate – Let God lead you step by step.Communicate – Cry out, speak up, and stay connected. Use your checklist. Trust your instruments. And above all, stay in touch with the Control Tower. He sees what you cannot. He knows the way through the storm. And He’s not just helping you land safely. He’s preparing you to soar again. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with

In our Faith in Flight blog series, we’ve explored how walking with God often mirrors the journey of flight—from pre-flight checks and takeoff clearance to trusting your instruments and navigating turbulence. But what sustains us throughout the entire journey? Faith. Faith is the fuel that keeps us airborne, especially when the skies get dark or the journey feels uncertain. The Bible is filled with powerful verses about faith—each one a compass pointing us back to trust in God. Below are some of the most impactful Bible verses about faith, each with the full Scripture and reflections to help you go deeper. Whether you’re grounded in preparation or mid-flight through a storm, these verses are for you. 1. Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” This verse gives us the most direct definition of faith found in Scripture. It’s not just believing that God exists; it’s trusting His promises, even when our eyes can’t yet see the outcome. In aviation terms, this is like flying through clouds with full reliance on your instruments. You may not see the runway, but you know it’s there—because you trust the system, and more importantly, the One who built it. Reflection: Faith is not a feeling—it’s a choice to believe that God’s Word is true, even when your circumstances say otherwise. 2. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV) “For we live by faith, not by sight.” Life with God requires spiritual IFR—Instrument Flight Rules. Like a pilot trusting gauges when visibility drops, we must choose to follow God’s guidance, even when things don’t make sense. Walking by faith means we take the next step, not because it looks safe, but because we trust the One leading us. Reflection: What area of your life requires blind trust in God right now? Ask Him for the courage to walk by faith—not sight. 3. James 1:3 (NIV) “Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” Faith is like a muscle, it strengthens through testing. Trials, delays, and disappointments don’t mean God has left you. Often, He’s using them to deepen your faith. Every bit of turbulence is an opportunity to grow in endurance and maturity. Reflection: Think back on a time your faith was tested. How did that experience shape you spiritually? 4. Romans 10:17 (NIV) “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” This verse reminds us that faith is not self-generated—it’s a response to the truth we receive. To build stronger faith, we must spend time in the Word. In our Faith in Flight analogy, this is your maintenance logbook, regular, intentional time with Scripture to ensure your spiritual systems are functioning. Reflection: Are you tuning in daily to the voice of God through His Word? The more you read, the more you’ll trust. 5. Mark 11:22–24 (NIV) “‘Have faith in God,’ Jesus answered. ‘Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, “Go, throw yourself into the sea,” and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.’” Jesus shows us the boldness of faith. Not because we manipulate God into doing what we want – but because we believe He’s good, powerful, and able to move mountains on our behalf. Reflection: Faith-filled prayer isn’t wishful thinking, it’s confident trust in a faithful God. 6. Ephesians 6:16 (NIV) “In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” In our recent post Trusting Your Instruments, we talked about the full armour of God. The shield of faith is one of your key instruments in battle. It protects you from lies, fear, and spiritual attack. But just like cockpit instruments, your shield must be regularly maintained through prayer, the Word, and time in God’s presence. Reflection: Is your shield of faith strong – or cracked? Ask God to strengthen it today. 7. Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse is a spiritual autopilot setting: trust and submit. Even when logic says one thing, faith reminds us that God sees the full flight plan. When we stop relying on our own understanding, we make room for God’s direction. Reflection: Surrender isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom. Let go of the need to know everything, and let God lead. 8. Isaiah 40:31 (NIV) “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Faith is what lifts us above the weight of life. It helps us rise—even when everything says we should be grounded. God doesn’t just want us to survive, He wants us to soar. Reflection: Are you running on your own strength or God’s? Wait on Him. Your wings will return. Final Thoughts – Your Faith Journey In our Faith in Flight series, we’ve looked at everything from preflight checks to declaring a mayday. But whether you’re in the air or still on the tarmac, the journey runs on faith. These verses are not just inspirational—they are spiritual instruments, tools to help you stay the course when visibility is low and emotions run high. Don’t just read them—meditate on them. Write them down. Pray them out loud. Declare them over your situation. Faith comes by hearing—and grows through practice. You are not flying solo. God is your Pilot, the Word is your map, and these verses are your instruments. ✈️ Keep Flying by Faith Want to explore more? Check out our ongoing Faith in Flight series and learn

Just imagine you’re cruising at 35,000 feet. The skies are calm, the autopilot is on, and the cabin is quiet. Then suddenly… Both engines fail. Alarms blare. You feel the aircraft drop. Training kicks in, but fear grips you. This is no ordinary checklist item—this is a crisis. You grab the radio and declare: “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday…” It’s the one word no pilot ever wants to say, but every pilot must be prepared to. When Everything Changes in a Moment In January 2024, a Japan Airlines flight collided with a coast guard plane while landing in Tokyo. Flames engulfed the aircraft. Despite the mayhem, all 379 passengers were evacuated in under 20 minutes, but the coast guard pilot didn’t survive.In another incident, a LATAM flight from Sydney to Auckland in 2024 experienced a sudden drop, hurling unbuckled passengers into the air. Chaos erupted. Dozens were injured. No one expected it. These weren’t scenes from a movie. These were real Mayday moments – unexpected, terrifying, and irreversible. And not everyone walks away from them. In life, too, engines can fail without warning. Our well-planned routes can be disrupted by a call from the doctor, a sudden loss, a spiritual breakdown, or an emotional overload. Sometimes the flight continues after a rough landing.Sometimes there’s damage.And sometimes, the crash leaves scars or takes lives. But no matter the outcome, one thing matters most in that moment: Knowing who to call, and calling in time. What Does “Mayday” Actually Mean? In aviation, Mayday is an international distress signal. It’s repeated three times, “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday” – to prevent confusion with other radio chatter. When a pilot says it, they’re not being dramatic. They’re saying: “I am in grave and imminent danger. I need immediate help.” There’s also Pan-Pan, used for urgent situations that aren’t yet life-threatening – like engine issues, smoke in the cockpit, or a medical emergency onboard. Both are serious. Both require a response. And both remind us that even with all the training in the world, there are moments we can’t handle alone. Our Mayday Moments Spiritually, we all hit Mayday points. The unexpected diagnosis.The job loss.The marriage that’s barely holding together.The spiritual burnout we didn’t see coming.The temptation we thought we’d mastered, but didn’t. There are days when prayer becomes a plea. When worship feels like warfare. When silence from heaven feels deafening. Sometimes, we try to muscle through it on our own.We downplay it. Say, “I’m okay.”We whisper, “It’s just turbulence.” But what if you actually need to declare a spiritual Mayday? What if the most faith-filled thing you can do in that moment…is call for help? Why the Control Tower Still Matters You’ve trained. You’ve studied. You’ve walked with God. You know the verses, the songs, the theology. But none of that replaces the Control Tower—the Voice that sees what you can’t. In a real emergency, the tower coordinates rescue, reroutes traffic, and clears the runway. Without it, a distressed pilot is left blind in a crowded sky. In your faith journey, God is that voice. The One who says: “Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you…” – Psalm 50:15 Even in your most chaotic moment, He’s not distant.He’s not caught off guard.And He’s not silent when you cry out sincerely. Why We Need a Trusted Crew One of the biggest mistakes in crisis is isolation. Pilots don’t go it alone – they communicate with crew, control, and ground. Spiritually, we need that too. When you hit a crisis, sometimes your own voice feels too weak to pray. That’s when your crew—a trusted circle of believers, mentors, and friends – steps in. Not just to listen, but to pray, intercede, and carry your stretcher when you’re too tired to walk. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2 You may need to say to someone: “I’m not okay. I don’t know what to pray. Can you pray for me?” That’s not weakness. That’s wisdom. When It Doesn’t End with a Miracle Let’s be honest: not every plane makes it. Not every Mayday has a soft landing. Some stories end in loss.Some dreams crash.Some people don’t survive the fire. Even then, God is still good. He’s still present. And He still walks with us through the wreckage. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…” – Psalm 23:4 We may not understand the why. But we cling to the Who. What to Remember in a Spiritual Emergency Jesus Declared Mayday Too In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus Himself cried out in anguish. On the cross, He shouted: “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” – Matthew 27:46 That was a Mayday moment. And yet, through that ultimate distress call, came the greatest rescue in history—salvation for us all. So don’t be afraid of calling out.Don’t be ashamed to say, “I need help.”God is an ever-present help in trouble. Final Thoughts: Have You Filed Your Mayday? Maybe you’re not in crisis right now. Maybe skies are clear. But tuck this truth into your spiritual flight bag: Trouble doesn’t mean failure. It means you’re human. Whether you’re whispering Pan-Pan or shouting Mayday, God hears you. And He responds. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

You’ve done your pre-flight checks. You’ve examined your heart and logged everything in the maintenance book. You waited for clearance from the control tower, and finally, the wheels left the ground. You’re in the air now, this is it. You obeyed God, stepped out in faith, and started the journey. But what’s that? A sudden jolt. The seatbelt sign flashes on. The plane shakes a little more than you’d like. Turbulence. And just like in flight, life has its own form of turbulence. When Faith Meets Resistance Nobody likes turbulence. It’s uncomfortable, unpredictable, and sometimes downright scary. But here’s what every seasoned pilot knows: turbulence is not a sign that something is wrong – it’s simply part of flying. We often believe that if we’re truly following God, everything should go smoothly. But that’s not what Scripture teaches, and that’s not what experience confirms. In fact, turbulence often comes after obedience. – not before. Think about it: Jesus told the disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” (Mark 4:35) That wasn’t a casual suggestion, it was a clear command. Yet, a violent storm hit them mid-journey. They were exactly where they were supposed to be – and still faced a terrifying storm. Why? Because faith doesn’t exempt us from storms. It carries us through them. What Turbulence Feels Like Spiritually That’s spiritual turbulence. And like physical turbulence, it often arrives without warning. But just like on a plane, we must resist the urge to panic. The plane isn’t falling apart. It’s pressing through a disturbance—and so are you. Why God Allows Turbulence How Pilots Respond to Turbulence Good pilots don’t panic. They: We’re called to do the same spiritually: Your Bible Is Your Instrument Panel When turbulence hits, don’t throw out the manual—lean into it. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 You can’t always see the storm’s end. But His Word keeps you from crashing into panic or hopelessness. And remember, the control tower (God) sees everything. He sees the winds, the traffic, the mountains ahead. He knows when to climb, when to descend, when to wait. That’s why pilots trust the tower—and we must trust God all the more. Biblical Examples of Turbulence in Obedience Turbulence doesn’t mean you’re in the wrong place. Sometimes, it’s proof you’re on the right path. Turbulence Is Temporary No flight experiences turbulence forever. Eventually, it smooths out. The skies open up. The ride steadies. So will your journey. “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” – Psalm 30:5 “Though I walk through the valley… I will fear no evil.” – Psalm 23:4 (Note: it’s a valley you walk through—not live in.) Key Takeaways from “In the Air” ✈️ Turbulence is not failure—it’s part of the flight. ✈️ Obedience to God doesn’t guarantee ease, but it does guarantee His presence. ✈️ When faith is shaken, anchor yourself in truth—not emotion. ✈️ Don’t jump ship. Don’t panic. Hold on to God’s promises. ✈️ The control tower still has eyes on your journey – even in the storm. Final Thoughts Maybe you’re flying through some spiritual turbulence right now. Things aren’t going as expected. You’re starting to question whether you even heard God right. Let me encourage you: Don’t jump out mid-flight. Don’t abandon what God called you to just because things got bumpy. This is part of the journey. You’re not crashing, you’re growing. The shaking isn’t a sign to stop, it’s a reminder to trust. The God who called you is the same God who will carry you. So sit tight. Keep your eyes on the Author and Finisher of your faith. He’s got this. And when the skies clear again and they will, you’ll look back and realise: the turbulence taught you to trust Him like never before. Are you flying through turbulence right now? Remember: He’s still in control. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

Not all flights happen in the perfect weather, sometimes the visibility is below 800 metres and the planes still take off. The last flight i took departed in low visibility. Looking out, you could see nothing but the clouds. The sky grows murky, the way ahead is unclear, and the cockpit windows show nothing but cloud. In that moment, the only hope is the instruments. Trained hands reach for the altimeter, attitude indicator, heading, and compass—not because the pilot feels confident, but because they trust what the instruments say. This is flying by faith. But here’s the thing: those instruments don’t just work automatically forever. They require regular maintenance. They must be checked in the pre-flight inspection. And even then, they aren’t enough on their own. Without connection to the control tower, even the best-maintained instruments can still lead you astray. Calibrated Faith – Maintaining Your Instruments We’ve talked before about the maintenance logbook—the spiritual habit of regularly examining our hearts and recording what God is doing (see The Maintenance Logbook: A Christian’s Guide to Self-Examination). Just like aircraft instruments, our spiritual tools need to be kept in working order. They don’t fix themselves. Neglected instruments can display false readings. A neglected heart can lead to misjudged decisions. Paul urges us in 2 Corinthians 13:5, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” Our faith must be maintained, not assumed. Pre-Flight Checks – Before You Fly Before every flight, pilots conduct a full walkaround and system check. Nothing is left to chance. Even if the aircraft flew fine yesterday, today’s flight needs fresh confirmation. The same goes for our spiritual life. Each day demands a fresh alignment. We can’t rely on yesterday’s prayer or last week’s Word. Pre-flight checks might seem repetitive, but they prevent disaster. Our spiritual disciplines—prayer, Scripture, worship, confession—aren’t religious routines. They’re safety checks for the soul. The Instruments Aren’t Enough Without the Tower Even the most skilled pilot with perfectly functioning instruments can drift off course without guidance from the control tower. The control tower has a wider perspective. It sees weather patterns, other aircraft, delays, and dangers. It provides clearance and coordinates safe landings. As believers, God is our control tower. We may know Scripture, have spiritual disciplines, and be “instrument-rated,” but if we aren’t listening for His voice, we’ll make decisions in isolation. “In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:6 The Full Armour – Our Spiritual Instrument Panel In Ephesians 6:10–18, Paul outlines the full armour of God. Each piece is part of our spiritual instrument panel: These are not just metaphors—they are the instruments God gives us to navigate spiritual skies. But notice what Paul says right after listing them: “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests…” (Ephesians 6:18) Even with the full armour, we’re told to stay in contact with the control tower—through prayer. Flying by Faith Means Trusting What’s True When the spiritual skies get cloudy and your feelings go haywire, that’s not the time to panic—it’s the time to trust what’s true. Because even the most well-equipped plane needs direction. What’s in the Cockpit? In every cockpit, pilots rely on several essential instruments and controls to stay safe and on course—especially when visibility is limited or when navigating through turbulence. Here’s what some of those tools are and how they connect to our spiritual walk: Each of these tools has its purpose—but even together, they are not enough without communication from the Control Tower. That’s God. All the instruments help us navigate, but they don’t replace the Voice that sees the whole picture. As skilled as we may be, and as equipped as we feel, we still need to listen for His command. Final Approach Faith isn’t about being fearless. It’s about being anchored. When emotions blur your sight, when doubt creeps in, and when you’re spiritually disoriented, your survival depends on whether you trust your instruments—and the Voice guiding you. Don’t just trust your feelings.Don’t just rely on routines.Trust God’s Word. Trust His Spirit. Stay connected to the Tower. And remember: “Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 You might not see the full runway. But God does. Fly by faith. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

So we’ve done our preflight checks, logged everything in the maintenance logbook, and received clearance for takeoff. Engines are humming, the runway is clear, and by all accounts, we’re ready to move forward. It feels like we’re just seconds away from launching into what God has for us. But before we take off, let’s pause. There’s one more crucial element we often forget to check in with: the Control Tower. You know what I love about the word “tower”? It’s strong. It’s stable. It stands above the noise. It reminds me of that beautiful scripture in Proverbs: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” – Proverbs 18:10 (NIV) Just like in aviation, where the control tower sees more than the pilot ever could from the cockpit, God stands high above the chaos of our lives, offering clarity, direction, and protection. And yet—how often do we launch into decisions without tuning into His voice? Who’s Really in Control? In aviation, the control tower isn’t optional—it’s essential. No aircraft, no matter how well-equipped or experienced the pilot may be, is permitted to move without instructions from the tower. Why? Because the tower has the bigger picture. It manages not just one plane but dozens, sometimes hundreds, of aircraft. It sees the full radar: weather systems, incoming flights, runway conditions, and potential collisions. That’s how God operates in our lives. We may think we know the path ahead, but He sees what’s just over the horizon. He sees the delay that could protect us. He knows the intersection where we’d crash if we tried to rush through. And He sees the perfect moment when all conditions align for us to soar. “Your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” – Isaiah 30:21 (NIV) But here’s the challenge: in a world full of noise—opinions, emotions, expectations, social media, and even our own fears—how do we hear that still, small voice? When the Cockpit Is Noisy I don’t know about you, but sometimes my cockpit (my mind and heart) is filled with noise. Pressure to perform. Anxiety about the future. The ticking clock of deadlines and desires. And in all that noise, it’s tempting to just go with the loudest voice – the most urgent thing, the most obvious next step. But the loudest voice isn’t always the right one. God doesn’t usually shout over the engine noise. He waits for us to quiet down. He waits for us to tune in. And that requires intentional stillness. “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10 (NIV) Stillness doesn’t mean inaction, it means alignment. It means choosing to slow down, to listen, and to trust that His timing and direction are better than our assumptions. Real-Time Guidance Here’s what’s fascinating about the control tower: it doesn’t just give one instruction and disappear. It stays with the pilot the entire time taxiing, takeoff, ascent, descent, landing. Every major decision is checked against the tower’s instructions. That’s how our relationship with the Holy Spirit should look. We don’t just check in with God when we’re at a crossroads—we stay connected. Through prayer. Through His Word. Through surrender. His voice isn’t just for big decisions – it’s for daily direction. The question is, are we listening? When the Tower Says “Hold” Have you ever heard a pilot get a “hold” instruction? Everything looks good—the weather is fine, the aircraft is functional, and they’ve even been cleared to taxi. But suddenly, the tower tells them to hold position. That’s the moment when frustration can rise. You’ve done everything right. You’ve prepared. You’ve waited. Why the delay? Spiritually, we face this too. There have been moments in my life where I felt ready. I had peace, I had plans, and even a few open doors. But something in me knew—God was saying “hold.” And I’ll be honest: I didn’t always like it. It made me feel like I wasn’t moving forward. Like I was missing out. But every time I obeyed that gentle hold, I later saw what God was protecting me from. Sometimes, He’s clearing unseen traffic. Sometimes, He’s adjusting your route. Other times, He’s giving someone else time to get into position so your journey will be smoother. We only see the cockpit. He sees the entire airspace. Learning to Tune In So, how do we tune in to the voice of the Control Tower – God’s voice – in a noisy world? Here are a few things that help me: Final Thoughts: You’re Not Flying Solo The cockpit may feel isolated. The journey ahead might look intimidating. But you are not alone. There is a voice, steady, wise, and full of love, calling you to trust Him above the noise. That voice doesn’t rush. It doesn’t confuse. It doesn’t lead into fear. It leads into life, peace, and purpose. “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” – John 10:27 (NIV) So before you push forward, before you take off,check in with the Tower. He may ask you to wait. He may reroute you. He may even say, “Not yet.”But when He does say “Go,” you can be sure that the skies ahead are clear, and you’ll soar higher than you ever imagined. ✈️ Key Takeaways from “The Control Tower” Are you tuning into the right voice?Before you take off, make sure you’ve heard from the Tower.It could make all the difference in your journey. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za