Life is like a hike.
It can be easy and it can be difficult.
There are times when the path is wide open and times when you can't see around the next bend.
Just imagine for a moment that this hike begins in a meadow.
It is easy walking here. The trail is clean, you feel you can do this all by yourself. The trail is soft, no rocks to stumble on, no roots to trip over.
The sunshine is easy to see and the weather is fair.
We would stay here forever if we could.
But we can't, something happens. something changes and the trail that you are on heads you into the forest.
It is harder now, the trail is not as smooth, the trail is difficult in places.
The path continues on.
Occasionally it splits, a decision will be made, choices cannot be undone.
The hike continues.
Sometimes it brings us to a place where it is really rocky.
The rocks are hard.
Sometimes they hurt.
But without changing they provide a firm place to stand.
On the uphill climbs, it is these rocks that we cling to, to prevent falling to where we once were.
These rocks are an important feature on the trail.
They make it what it is.
Looking back over your life, where are you?
Are you clinging to the meadow, trying to stay where it is easy or are you clinging to the rocks?
Struggle with the hard stuff.
If you stay in the meadow you will never make it to the top of the hill or stand on the heights of the mountain.
If you stay in the meadow you won't learn what the forest can teach you.
But more important than pressing forward is seeing who is in front of you.
Who is leading you?
Who created the path you are following?
Where are you?
Where are you going?
Psalm 23-
The Lord is any shepherd I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores any soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for His name's sake,
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I will fear no evil.
For you are with me,
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
No comments:
Post a Comment