Finding Our Footing

After nearly three weeks, we are beginning to feel settled in our new appointment. Transition between churches and moving to a new community in a new region shake up comfort zones and break most of established routines. These changes can be as simple as whether to call carbonated beverages “pop” or “soda,” or they can be the obstacle of navigating unknown roads to new destinations.

Last week, I was invited to visit a local nursing home to pray with a family that was facing the loss of a loved one. My new church family gave me great directions and I set off with a feeling of confidence. Three blocks from my destination, I encountered a water main break that forced a detour of all traffic. Normally, this would involve a trip around the block, but this time it meant about 25 minutes of driving unknown country roads. It was challenging, but quite humorous.

When we are in the midst of change, or when we are navigating our way in new territory, it is important to focus on the solid places where we can feel secure. In our physical experience, it can be as simple as following easy roads or, trusting our GPS to find our way home. Spiritually, it means keeping our focus on the solid rock of Jesus Christ. In the midst of all our chaos, he is the unchanging One who guides our way and helps us find our footing on the difficult paths of life.

In Psalm 18, David declares, “I love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” (18:1-2) This great King of Israel knew that life was filled with challenges from without and within. Having faced many difficult circumstances, even some he caused himself, David understood that the only solid, safe place was the Lord. Likewise, in our lives, safety and security are found in Christ alone. As the old hymn said, “All other ground is sinking sand.”

Jesus never promised us an easy path, nor was there ever the expectation that life would be fair. Instead, Jesus said, “In this life you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world!” (John 16:33) Our journey will stretch us, but Jesus will be with us all along the way to give us an unshakable place to stand and to lead us into the destiny he plans for us. We can commit our way to Christ and hold fast to him as we make our way along the path. Indeed, he is our strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, salvation, and stronghold, and thank God He is! May we trust and find our footing in him!

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