John, a devoutly religious man, lived in a low-lying neighborhood. One day, the local weather service warned of imminent flooding and advised evacuation. While everybody else was headed for higher, safer ground, taking what little belongings they could carry, John remained, steadfast in his faith that God would protect him.

The floods came, and the water rose. Soon, John went up on his roof to pray and await God's intervention. The water continued to rise ever higher. A rowboat was passing by John's house, and the occupants urged him to join them and get to safety. But John said, "No, I'm staying right here. I have faith that God will save me."

The water level was up to the eves on John's house, and continued to rise. John continued to pray. Another boat came by, and John was urged to get on board and get to higher ground. But John said, "No, thank you. I know God will keep me safe."

Still, the water rose until John was standing on the tips of his toes on the very peak of his roof, struggling to keep his head above water. Even then, he continued his prayers. This time, the pilot of a helicopter looked down and noticed John's predicament. The pilot hovered over John, and sent down a lifeline. He yelled to John to grab on and hold tight, and he would be lifted to safety. But John waved him away and said, "No, you go ahead, God will take care of me."

John was swept away and drowned. When he got up to heaven, he said to God, "All my life, I've had unshakable faith in you, but you let me down, God. Why did you ignore my prayers and allow me to perish in that flood?"

And God said, "Ignore your prayers, John? What do you mean I ignored your prayers? I sent you 2 boats and a helicopter."