Balance Beam

Weekly Inspiration for 18-24 March 2023

We made a recent day trip to Lake Michigan. While walking along the beach, we encountered a long piece of driftwood. Pictured, I’m having a little fun (since it reminded me of elementary-school days’ and our first introduction to the balance beam). Though this natural version was only raised about six inches off the sand, it was tricky because the surface was very uneven.

Deborah on the Balance Beam

I began to wonder,

As I took each step,

Whether we ever falter,

Due to—unevenness?

Do we ever lose our balance?

In this thing called life?

Do we ever shift our focus,

From our Father’s eyes?

Do we ever lose our way,

Due to stubbornness?

Do we ever forget to offer grace,

When we or someone else,

Makes a misstep or a mistake?

Do we keep moving forward,

For heaven’s sake?

Do we pick ourselves up,

Even if we fall?

And do we keep looking to Jesus,

As our All in All?

It was fun to play for a few minutes in the great outdoors. We laughed as my steps wove in and out on this uneven piece of driftwood. And I imagined … if the Lord looked at our sneaker-clad feet … would He see us as wobbling or surefooted? Would He hear us standing against gossip? Does He hear us sharing our faith? Does He see us building our lives upon the sure foundation of His Word?

Isaiah 33:6 (NIV) tells us, “He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.”

“The foundation that has already been built is Jesus Christ, and no one can build any other foundation. People can build on that foundation using gold, silver, jewels, wood, grass, or straw. But the work that each person does will be clearly seen, because the Day will make it plain. That Day will appear with fire, and the fire will test everyone’s work. If the building they put on the foundation still stands, they will get their reward.” 1 Corinthians 3:11-14 ERV.

Dear Lord, You are my Balance Beam and Sure foundation every day. You are the One I turn to, lean on, and trust to hold me in every circumstance. My eyes are upon You. My ears are tuned toward You. My arms are lifted in praise. And Jesus, even when I wobble, I know You will be right by my side to take hold of my hand. Thank You for guiding and leading my steps. And help me share Your joy no matter where the path leads. Amen.

The Lord is our Balance Beam, our Sure Foundation, and the One upon whom we can rely, always! He alone keeps us upright or moving in the right direction if we seek to follow in His footsteps.

Of note? Doug and I each took a turn at God’s natural balance beam. What did we notice? A steady pace helped keep your bodies moving evenly! Perhaps that’s a lesson for us in running our faith race unto Him!

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