“So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.” Hebrews 12:12-13
Wow. Today this verse is in my devotion, and it really speaks to me. I wanted to share this because perhaps it will speak to you as well. This verse is talking about discouragement… being discouraged or fearful about our current situation (whether physical, emotional, financial, etc.). The Lord is pointing out to us that discouragement allows the smallest obstacle in our way, to be magnified. That leads to depression, which tempts us to avoid that obstacle or walk around it; we’d rather avoid it and take the easy way out.
Here, God is telling us He is ready to heal us, but it will take some effort on our part. The temptation to us is to find help from someone or something else that will enable us to walk around the obstacle in some other way. It’s natural for us to try and walk around trial/adversity rather than walk through it. Can someone say amen?
So often we get overwhelmed with whatever it is that stands in our way. God says, “So take a new grip with your tired hands”- March straight through the flood, and behold, the waters will divide, the Red Sea will open, the Jordan will part, and the Lord will lead you through to victory! Don’t allow your feet to turn the wrong way, but let your body (whatever your obstacle is) and faith “become strong.”
Beloved, maybe this is where you find yourself today. Don’t give in to discouragement; give no place for Satan to boast that he has overwhelmed you. Remember that running the race of faith isn’t making sure you finish the race by being the fastest runner; it’s about being obedient and developing your character to make you ready for your precious bridegroom – Jesus!