It is strange place we find ourselves in as we consider our own agency. On the one hand, it is important to know that our actions are meaningful and have an effect on matters. On the other hand, it is important to know that no matter how meaningful they may be, the outcome ultimately is decided by the transcendent person of God. Perhaps a salient analogy would be that of sailors on the sea. A sailor who works against the sea can possibly arrive at his destination, but the likelihood of doing so is dramatically increased when he works with it. Throwing up his sail at the wrong moment may mean disaster or victory. Yet in no circumstance would a wise sailor think that either outcome is a surety. It is sure enough to create a living for his family, but not to be cocky about. The sea is without thought, bound to the gravity of the moon, who is thoughtless as well. These are just forces acting upon smaller forces. Yet all are under a supreme, transcendent and personal force in God. Because we can know him, the wisest way to accomplish a meaningful existence would be to take advantage of his knowability. We ought to learn about him and build a relationship with him. We need not pretend. Acting mindlessly leads to ruin at sea. Pretending to know how to behave leads to destruction. There is no room for maintaining one’s pride in open waters. Instead we should use our agency to think before we act, based upon the knowledge gained from knowing him. Then we won’t be surprised by the difficulties of life, or be swept away by its perils.