I have been climbing out of a pit.
How did I end up there, Lord… almost before I realized it?
Plates full-to-overflowing.
2015 Endings and 2016 Beginnings.
Busyness. Laziness.
Rewards. Entitlement.
Excitement. Exhaustion.
The Perfect Storm.
Leaving me in The Perfect Pit.
Time to climb UP and OUT!
But how, Lord??? Seven Lessons learned from the art of rock climbing.
Or is it “ROCK” climbing? 🙂
Lesson #1: Be careful and Alert.
“Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at His coming.” (1 Peter 1:13)
Lesson #2: Seek professional instruction (and/or go with an experienced climber).
“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am… I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” (John 13:13,15)
Lesson #3: Don’t overexert yourself. Stay within your limits.
“Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” (Ephesians 6:10)
Lesson #4: If you’re injured, wait until you’re healed before climbing again.
“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all His benefits — who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion… ” (Psalm 103:2-4)
Lesson #5: Avoid areas where there is a lot of loose rock.
“I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” (Psalm 40:1-2)
Lesson #6: Use the right kind of equipment… and always safety-check it before climbing.
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:11)
Lesson #7: Know and trust your Belayer.
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise — in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 56:3-4)
Looking UP…
Climbing OUT…
Abba’s Girl