Keep Climbing by Marilyn Nutter

“Which way do you want to go?” my husband asked as we began our morning walk. 

“How about this way?” I answered and pointed left, “We haven’t been out this direction yet.” 

About twenty minutes later, my husband groaned,“You took me the way of all the inclines.” 

“I’m sorry; I didn’t realize there were so many steep areas in this part of the neighborhood.”

We waited a few minutes for the pain in his knee to diminish before resuming our walk. 

“I’m okay now,” he said. “It’s good to see the view from this part of our neighborhood. The extra stretch is good for me.”

In Habakkuk 3:19 we read that “The Sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.” Habakkuk encourages us that we can climb to great heights, not because of our strength or ability, but due to our stable confidence in God’s strength. Habakkuk is determined that regardless of circumstances, whether celebrating or suffering, whether pain or comfort, his trust will be in God.

Climbing takes endurance and confidence. Sometimes we are out of breath or wince in pain as the next steps stretch us. We might be too hot and very thirsty. Perhaps we even question if the climb is worth it and we consider turning around. Habakkuk encourages us, “Keep going!” 

What is your climb today? Are you dealing with a situation that is disappointing, seems hopeless or irreversible? Do you need to make a painful decision? Are you wrestling with doubts? Perhaps you feel as if you are on a treadmill and going nowhere. Join Habakkuk in shouting as he does in Hab. 3:18, “Yes! Despite appearances, I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.” 

Climbing is not about looking at the challenge of our circumstances but reaching the heights by developing our relationship with the Lord and grabbing on to His strength to deal with them. How can you do that today--developing a regular practice of Bible reading, finding an accountability partner to pray with or memorize scripture? God wants to be our strong companion. He can help us go to the heights as we learn more of Him. With each step, we will see that the climb is worth the effort. As we reflect and move on, He changes our perspective. When we do we’ll discover an amazing view.

Marilyn Nutter lives in Mt Holly, NC, is the author of three devotional books and a speaker for women’s groups. She is a contributor to several compilations, most recently Faith and Family: A Devotional Pathway for Families. Contact her at marilynnutter@gmail.com or view Extraordinary Treasures. Marilyn maintains a blog for boomer women at Grandmother's Views.

Photo credit: Evgeni Dinev / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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