Many of us have experienced that spiritual valley where we think the sun will never shine again. Some were swiftly thrust into that valley by a specific event; others drifted gradually until they reached the bottom and can't say how they got there. In either case, we wandered in darkness until something began to lift us to new heights.
"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint."Isaiah 40:29-31
An eagle appears to fly effortlessly through the air with only the occasional flap of its wings. These large birds are experts at finding areas of rising air called thermals that allow them to rise without using their own energy.
God uses spiritual hot springs to lift up those who wait on and trust in Him. Those who believe in the truth of His Word and diligently seek the updrafts through prayer and devoted worship will be freed from the heavy baggage that limits their upward flight—they will be lifted up by the guidance and power of God's Spirit.
If we find ourselves in the valley now, we must continue to seek Him with all our hearts and trust that our thermal is on its way. He has promised to strengthen us and make us soar again!
And if we are currently soaring in our communion with God, we must give honor and praise to our Heavenly Father; but we must also recognize that there are many others in the valley who desperately need help—many who are searching and feeling overcome by darkness. As we ascend, we must understand that we are never called to fly alone.
God has chosen to use people to accomplish much of His work on earth. He could have chosen other methods; “I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would cry out” Luke 19:40, but He chose us. We should “encourage one another daily” Hebrews 3:13. Why? Because there is a valley full of people waiting and longing for that current that will lift them up and set them free. We can be those updrafts for others with simple words or acts of encouragement that show God’s love and gently lead them back to His peace.
We have been adopted into God's "family"...and our family needs each other so much! Let us dedicate ourselves to rising to new heights through worship of God in absolutely every area of our lives. Let us continue to soar to new heights and always seek out others in need of God's encouragement.
- steve troxel
No comments:
Post a Comment