Many years ago I had a conversation with an elderly saint of God that started over looking at a crack in the pavement. She must have realized that I, too, am a visual learner. If I see it, I am more likely to commit it to memory.

“Look at that blade of grass” she had said. As weak as a little piece of grass would have to be? it still had enough determination to keep pressing through the hard places to survive.” What a defeated little seed it must have started out being? No hope in sight, only determination to keep trying, to keep pressing through the harsh stone and gravel. Pressing through the ugliness to reach upward, knowing that it was the best chance to eventually feel the warmth of the sun.

She went on to tell me that we are to press on just as diligently. Regardless of those that kick dirt over you, step on you bending your most tender places. Keep climbing upward with faith that the climb will bring forth a much better place.

We have all been here, the place where your good has been spoken evil of. Your intentions were tarnished by someone else’s pain. You became their “scapegoat”. How much easier is it to collect stones to throw than focusing on the bag of rocks that weigh down your own pockets. The end result is the same – burning bridges that  you will no doubt have to cross again. We all have been guilty, eating “crow” that tastes bad no matter how you make excuses to season it. It is still the same, no matter how it is served. I’ve had my share.

I am still learning to press through the hard places. It’s difficult. I have to admit that I am incapable of doing it on my own. I’m sure God must roll his eyes at me frequently. It’s okay if you laugh at that statement. He knows me better than anyone, including myself. I am so thankful that I don’t have to defend myself to Him, or prove to Him who I am. He knows me. He knows my heart. Yes, I have to do a lot of repenting at times.

I have to learn to be “still”- I am still learning to let Him steady my heart. Let Him do the work. I have a habit of saying under my breath… God you see. God you know. You defend me when I am incapable of defending myself. I can depend on family and friends to rally around me, but there comes those times that they are not physically or emotionally available. It is during these times that I have to silence the clowns in my circus (my inner thoughts) and let him take over.

Why am I surprised when He comes to my rescue? I have no clue. I just know that he continues to do so, and I continue to be amazed how masterfully he accomplishes it every time. Help me Lord, my unbelief. You hold me in the palm of Your hand.

I am thankful for the word that was sent my direction by not one.. but two friends..same scripture..that’s how God works. Always on time, a God that sees.. I am fortunate to have friends that are willing to be vessels – used at some of my most desperate moments. You know who you are – 🙂

When you are pressing through the hard places, remember He is there….encouraging you to press on.. push through…until you can feel the warmth He has waiting on you. Rest in Him, your perfect defender.

Exodus 14:14      “The LORD will fight for you while you keep still.”

Thank you, Lord… for allowing me to feel your warmth….during some really cold places.