"Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground."
Ever tried to climb up a mountain? I used to enjoy going out to Stone Mountain to walk up the side of it and sit up top while looking out across the state - a lot of fun as the sun sets. Atlanta is fully visible. I did not use to get tired going up it. Now, I tire just looking up at it.
At the base of the mountain, the land looks even but looks can be deceiving. It is a gradual climb which increases as you get closer to the top. The top...that is the killer. Feels like you need to be on your hands and knees. Of course they added a handrail recently - wasn't there when I was younger! I like taking several breaks going up now and on the way down.
I have made this climb with my son a couple of times. He, at eight, is a master of direction - rabbit trails attract him, and he would love to just follow them. I am there to guide him back to the correct path. He would also like to play along the way (searching caves formed by boulders) and see how close to the edge you can get (getting dizzy thinking about it). I love the climb but do not get me close to the edge - feels like I am sliding regardless of how high the fence may be.
Sometimes we let faith seem like an uphill climb. We get tired and frustrated. Life throws things at us, and we wonder why being a Christian is so hard. Other times life seems to be leaving us, and we are certain we are going the right direction. Let me ask a few questions:
- Have you ever prayed for God to let His Spirit lead you on level ground?
- Are you climbing alone or with God?
- Are you climbing in the direction God is leading or pulling away from God because you know how to get there?
Do not be frustrated. Learn to let God guide you. Pray for a sensitivity to the leading of God's Spirit. Pray for level ground so you do not feel like you are sliding towards to edge. Remind yourself that God is God. Follow His will; you may just find a walk with Him is much easier.
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