Called to be Strong

All too often, it’s the thin and narrow ledge we’re forced to walk that grows us the most. Sometimes navigating the tight rope stretched out long before us is our only option…and we’re called to be strong. It’s when putting one foot in front of the other with no hand rails, no support system, no one to keep us steady that we draw on our own knowledge of what inner strength really is.

So many times I’ve found myself perched up there on that highest peak alone and unsure. It’s a scary, unsteady place to be, yet it almost seems as if each scenario is perfectly orchestrated, perfectly timed with situations I certainly wouldn’t choose on my own. Most of which seem to take place each time my husband is out of town and unavailable to encourage or support me. When moving forward alone is my only option and I do so with trepidation, it’s sort of like jumping into the deep end of a pool for the first time. How deep is it really? Will I sink to the bottom or will I be able to grab the side of the pool if I need to?

It’s only after I emerge from the situation, however shaken, that I clearly see once again. Since I can do nothing apart from Him (John 15:5) I couldn't have possibly acted in my own strength, but in God’s.  

“In the day when I cried out, You answered me,

and made me bold with strength in my soul.” (Psalm 138:3)

It’s God’s strength that keeps us from sinking to the bottom. It’s His love for us that brings us safely through the dark unknown to the light on the other side. And I’ve learned that it’s not a challenge or even a test but a command to go boldly forward in the Lord. To put action to His words in every situation, our faith before our fear…each and every time we’re called to be strong.

“And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness,” (Acts 4:29)