Walking the Balance Beam

Write From My Heart / January 14, 2021 / Walking the Balance Beam

Psalm 40:2 (NLT) He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.

            This morning an old memory (very old) surfaced. Back in junior high days one of the required state standards in physical education was demonstrating our balance by walking across a balance beam, pivoting on our toes, and returning back across the beam. I remember our coach telling us to imagine ourselves walking across a log stretched out over a muddied pond, to take each step slowly heel-to-toe as we went, and above all, never look down.

            Most days we scoot through life never considering our footing. Everything seems as solid as it can be and we seldom stop to think where our feet will take us as we travel from point to point. However, there are those days when each of us feels as if we are traveling across a muddy pit on a very thin beam. On days such as those, using mud and mire as an analogy for the pit of despair seems so accurate and appropriate. Each step seems to be a struggle, and the only log available for our footing seems to grow thinner and more precarious with each step.

            During times like these, how thankful and blessed we are to have a Heavenly Father who watches over us. He is the one who provides sure footing as we travel across the muddy pits of life. He steadies us and will never abandon us. He always stays within a prayer’s reach.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            When life’s burdens seem to close in around us, thank you for keeping us steady. Remind us how close you stay to us. Thank you for your love and care.

            In the name of Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior, Amen.