Discovering the Path God Has For Us in 2024
The Inspiring Story of Matthew Fontaine Maury
Recently, over coffee, a friend shared the captivating story of Matthew Fontaine Maury, which immediately grasped my attention. If you're unfamiliar with Maury, let me introduce you to a figure whose discoveries are still pivotal today.
Matthew Fontaine Maury, often hailed as the "Father of Modern Oceanography," was an innovative 19th-century American naval officer and scientist. Born in 1806, his naval career sparked a deep fascination with the mysteries of the sea. Maury's extensive research and pioneering techniques greatly advanced maritime navigation and oceanography, establishing him as a leading figure in these fields.
One of Maury's most profound insights occurred while he was recovering from an ill. During his recovery, his daughter was reading the Bible to him as she often did. One day she read Psalm 8:8, which references the "paths of the seas."
Psalm 8:8 (NIV) - …the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas.
This phrase resonated deeply with Maury, fueling a conviction that these paths were divinely ordained. He reasoned that if the Bible spoke of them, there must indeed be navigable 'highways' in the ocean. Driven by this epiphany, Maury embarked on a journey to discover and map these ocean currents and wind patterns. His endeavors culminated in his most significant publication, "The Physical Geography of the Sea" in 1855, which revolutionized navigation.
Consider the impact of Maury's work: today, these ocean currents are not just routes for marine life but also the backbone of global shipping lanes. According to the International Chamber of Shipping, around 11 billion tons of goods are transported by sea annually, amounting to about 1.5 tons per person based on the current global population. In many parts of the world, maritime shipping constitutes 80% of all imports and exports by volume. Maury's discovery, inspired by a simple scripture reading, now underpins a critical aspect of our global economy.
What is Your Path?
This story of Matthew Fontaine Maury is layered with profound lessons and inspiration. Firstly, it demonstrates how God revealed a hidden truth within His scriptures, a discovery yet unknown to the world. Secondly, it highlights Matthew's keen awareness and ability to discern God's voice through the scriptures even while bedridden with illness. Thirdly, this revelation bestowed upon him a divine purpose and destiny, offering a clear path for him to pursue. Fourthly, and most significantly, Matthew's pursuit of this path had a lasting global impact. His journey didn't just lead to his own personal enlightenment but also paved the way for revolutionary changes in the world and the maritime industry. All this transformative journey began with just a simple, yet profound phrase from the scriptures: “paths of the seas.”
So as I walk into 2024, below are the things I am focused on. I challenge you to join me in the following things:
Below is for paid subscribers only - I know, I know, you don’t want to pay. Think of it this way, you’ll probably spend $55 this week on coffee or snacks you don’t need. You can spend $55 per year to improve your leadership.
Just a thought, don’t be mad at me. 🤓