I DID IT!
My son sent me a video clip (see below) of my 3-year-old granddaughter rock climbing. They were at a rock-climbing gym, and for the first time, she was going up the wall under the careful guidance and care of her dad (an accomplished rock climber). I watched her make her way up the wall, finding each foot and handhold. And then, as she reached the top, she exclaimed, “I DID IT!” And then she repelled down as if she had been doing this every day. Okay, I am a very proud grandpa.
I believe her words of joy and accomplishment “I DID IT!” speak to us. Matthew 18:1-5 At that time, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? He called a little child to him and placed the child among them. And he said: truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
My granddaughter was under the watchful care and guidance of her dad, as we are under the supervision of our Heavenly Father: Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
Have you been trying to accomplish something in your life? Are you trying to overcome? We are all trying to get through the pandemic, and I can’t wait to hear the words of joy: we DID IT!: How are we going to DO IT?
My granddaughter received guidance, and she was supported by ropes, a safety harness, and her dad: Galatians 6:2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
When we step onto the rock, we are putting our safety in the hands of our climbing partner. Similarly, we put our lives into the hands of the Lord:
Psalms 25:1-5 LORD, I put my life in your hands. I trust in you, my God, and will not be disappointed. My enemies will not laugh at me. No one who trusts in you will be disappointed. But disappointment will come to those who try to deceive others. They will get nothing. LORD, help me learn your ways. Show me how you want me to live. Guide me and teach me your truths. You are my God, my Savior. You are the one I have been waiting for.
As the partner, dad was watching, instructing, and protecting his daughter from falls and injury. With each successful step, confidence and trust increased. Dad was there to help his daughter move forward up the wall.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Did you notice her (cute) climbing shoes? Climbing shoes are designed to grip the rock, keeping the climber from sliding, even on the tiniest of holds. Proper foot placement and trusting our feet are essential. Allow your shoes to remind you to trust God’s Word and the peace that comes from Him. Whenever we find ourselves stressed or struggling with challenges, we remember to trust in the promises of God’s Word.
Psalm 37:30-31The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.
Our footwear is important. Scripture teaches us that it is an important part of the spiritual armor we put on:
Ephesians 6:15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace
One of the reasons why the Roman military was so powerful was because of their footwear. The Roman soldier knew his feet must be firmly planted, prepared for battle in every sense. His shoes were studded with spikes, like cleats. The studs helped with balance and kept him from slipping in the heat of battle.
Wisdom and steady footing are essential components in battle. The best armor wouldn’t help if the soldier fell to the ground beneath his attacker. Knowing God’s Word, the Bible, serves as our studded shoes. Scripture gives us an understanding of Satan’s battles waged against us and the tools to withstand attack. Wisdom, strength, and courage come when the gospel of peace resonates in our hearts.
If you feel anxious, put on 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
If you feel weak, put on Isaiah 40:31, but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
If your health is suffering, put on Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Jeremiah 30:17 But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the LORD.
Let’s put on our climbing shoes!
Pastor Steve