I never get tired of witnessing God’s goodness with the inklings He provides. So many blessings occur each time. During a conversation with a friend, I got the feeling I was supposed to attend a special service at church that night. A while ago I had given my second book to a man that was there, so I asked him if he was interested in my latest, God’s Compassion Illuminated. He was excited to have it, saying he enjoys reading my reflections.
When I share this book with people, I mention I am happy that there is a section on the Holy Land. It often leads to conversation about it, and it’s always interesting to learn of others who have experienced the pilgrimage or want to. This man falls into the “hope to visit there some time” category. He also expressed interest in doing the 500-mile Camino de Santiago pilgrimage someday when he can afford enough time off of work. Pilgrims who embark on this journey usually walk routes that take them through Spain, France, and Portugal. The final destination is where James, the apostle, is believed to be buried. I shared how I, too, would love to do a portion of the pilgrimage someday, figuring I would never be able to tackle the 500-mile totality of it.
Photo courtesy of BK under Creative Commons License (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Right then, with serious eyes, leaning toward me, he says, “How do you eat an elephant?” I should have known the answer, but I said, “I don’t know. How?” Obviously, he says, “One bite at a time!” After we finished talking and I started driving away, I burst out laughing and smiling, thinking about the wisdom he shared. Yes, what great truth and encouragement for me to reflect on. Five simple words that are so powerful!
Is there something in your life that seems overwhelming?
Do you have an unfulfilled dream you don’t think you can make happen?
Is there something that seems impossible that God is calling you to?
The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. –Psalm 37:23 (NLT)
Each day of our lives is made up of a series of steps. In reality, life is lived one step at a time. With each step, God delights in our lives and is always there to guide us. God knows the whole of our journey because He is sovereign. Our task is to trust Him with each step we take.
Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. —Psalm 119:105 (NLT)
God guides each footstep we take on this journey of life. A lamp allows us to see one step at a time on the pathway. His Word is the light that illumines our path, showing us the way to go. We do not need to fear, knowing we are never alone.
Photo courtesy of Sharon Tate Soberon under Creative Commons License (CC BY-ND 2.0)
Be encouraged this week to…
…step out in faith to challenge yourself.
…know God is directing you step by step.
…know God cares about every detail of your life.
…let God’s Word illuminate your path, one step at a time.
…take only one step at a time.
…grin when you consider how you eat an elephant!
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. –Isaiah 41:10 (NLT)
*God moment: A friend made me a special homemade card to celebrate my book launch. The one Bible verse she included is Psalm 37:23. It is the first verse I shared in this reflection that was written two days before I received the card! How amazing is our God?
We do take baby steps during periods of darkness. We trust that the Holy Spirit is comforting us and Jesus although we cannot see him is holding onto our hands guiding us through the valleys leading us to hope and out of despair as he dispels his compassion and grace upon us. We never walk alone. God helps us during our lowest times in life. His love is bigger than any problem we are facing.
Hello, Carm… Thank you so much for the words of wisdom you shared. I especially like what you said about leading us to hope with the compassion and grace Jesus showers upon us! Thank you for faithfully reading and commenting. God bless~