A few summers ago, my eldest son talked me into going on one of those crazy amusement park rides. As long as I kept my eyes closed, I felt safe in the secure hold of the seat. We spun in crazy circles and flipped upside down. It was exhilarating. And terrifying.
I had to peek. As soon as my eyes got involved, the self-preservation instinct kicked in. I froze.
The Bible says, “Walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV). When life’s trajectory is erratic and feels like it’s out of control, we can’t ask to stop the ride. Sometimes our circumstances carry us willy-nilly. We can’t steer – it’s enough to just hold on.
Will the bystanders pity our pinched, green-tinted faces, or will they be amazed that we are secure enough to find joy in the midst of the confusion?
The Apostle Paul wrote about rejoicing in all things (Philippians 4:4), not because our lives are free from pain, but rather because the hand of God holds us and carries us through.
When we stop looking for our own solutions to life, and pause to sense God’s firm hold, we show a powerful testimony of our Sovereign Lord’s ability to love and care for those in turbulence.
We may not like the ride, but let’s hang on and trust the One who is holding onto us. God hasn’t dropped anyone yet.
© Janet Sketchley, 2008
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For devotionals, reviews and conversation, stop by Janet Sketchley's blog, God with Us: Finding Joy.
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ReplyDeleteThat is a great analogy between amusement park rides and life! I feel like I am on a roller coaster right now. It feels like God is doing so much in me at once, and you're right, it is exhilarating and terrifying at the same time! Thank you for your comment on my site. God bless!
ReplyDeleteGood one, Joanna. thanks! Marcia
ReplyDeleteWell, Johanna, a roller coaster ride is most fitting for my life at present! Yes, there have been times when I have asked the driver to stop the ride and let me off. But He chooses to do otherwise - I am constantly reminded about something you said "...rejoicing in all things (Philippians 4:4), not because our lives are free from pain, but rather because the hand of God holds us and carries us through." Thanks for the reminder. Blessings, Glynis
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