HINDS' FEET
"The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to tread on the heights."
Habakkuk 3:19 (NIV)
In college, I studied abroad in Belize, where I went on an unforgettable hike to a waterfall. The first half of the hike was easy, but as the trail narrowed and steepened, the adventure truly began. We tackled hundreds of rickety steps, navigated boulders and climbed over rock walls. At one point, we had to move in a single file line along the cliff's edge. It was a thrilling mix of excitement and fear. When I finally reached the top, the tree line opened into a breathtaking oasis: a crystal-clear swimming hole, adorned with its own mesmerizing waterfall.
Today, I see my walk with the Lord as a journey up a mountain. In the beginning, life felt like a wide, flat road--comfortable and straightforward. As I pursued Christ, the path transformed, becoming steeper and more challenging. I faced a choice: to continue onward, embracing the difficulties with the promise of something great awaiting me, or to turn back to what was familiar and safe. I chose to keep moving forward on the straight and narrow.
Despite facing unexpected losses and hardships, I hold tightly to the belief that this journey is worthwhile. I remind myself that God is strengthening my feet, just like those of a deer. The imagery of hinds' feet speaks to the sure-footed agility of female deer or mountain goats, both fearless in navigating rocky cliffs. In my relationship with the Lord, I strive to embody the same courage as I travel the narrow path, which may seem daunting.
I trust that He will make my feet stable through His Word, guiding me as I climb. As I envision reaching the summit at the end of my life, I am reassured that every challenge faced will be worth the reward. Each step, each struggle, is an opportunity to draw closer to Him and grow in faith. So, let us embrace the journey, for the view from the top awaits us, and it is filled with His glory.
APPLICATION: Set aside time this week to pray and reflect on your faith journey. Remember, you're not alone in facing challenges, and each step helps you grow in faith. Journaling can help you track your progress and stay motivated on your path to Christ.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, please make my feet swift and sure like a deer. Help me focus on You when the path gets tough. May my hope be anchored in You, knowing a life full of promise awaits. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?