When your Christian walk is more of a limp
I hope you don’t think I’m running like the wind and leaping over life’s obstacles in a single bound. When your Christian walk is more of a limp, you may think someone else’s walk is easy or successful, you are wrong. We’re all in this struggle together.
WRECKED
I heard the pop when my lower right leg twisted West and my body went South. Chunks of snow burned my face as I sat on the slope amidst what looked like a yard sale of skis and poles. Not realizing I was hurt, everyone sped downhill except my daughter who helped me up. I snugged my ankle against my other leg and skied down the mountain, grimacing all the way. Three incisions and six weeks of physical therapy later, I was back to “normal.” Except not.
Prov 4:12,” When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble.” NKJV
Immobility weakened my quadriceps and despite the therapy, I had a long way to go. So I went to the gym. A personal trainer worked with me through pain and sweat to strengthen my legs. When I went skiing the following year, I was stronger than ever. You see, that’s how it works. Exercising weak muscles makes them stronger. Exercising weak faith makes it stronger too.
I was tempted to avoid the pain, give up and sit in a chair. I certainly had a valid excuse. But training and effort got me back on track so it was worth it.
How strong are you?
Whether I’ve shared advice on forgiveness, anxiety or joy, you may have gotten the impression I have it all figured out. If so, then I owe you an apology. For full disclosure you need to know, my advice is tested and proven only in my own life. No doubt my life is a living example of overcoming adversity, so at least I’ll take a little credit for knowing what I’m talking about.
Psalm 119:45, “I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments.” NLT
Formulas don’t work
There is no formula for walking in victory. Nothing could be farther from the truth and rarely does anything work the first time you try it.
Follow my advice on FORGIVENESS – it won’t work
Implement my recommendations for dealing with and ANXIETY – you’ll still be tied up in a ball of knots.
Choose JOY – I seriously doubt you will find it.
So what gives?
REPETITION
Practice makes perfect, better yet, perfect practice makes perfect. Open your Bible and nothing changed in your life? Open it again. Prayed the same prayer over and over with no visible results? Do it again. Still believing when evidence says don’t? Keep the faith, keep walking, even if it looks more like a limp.
Psalm 128:1, “Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways!” ESV
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again
Never quit
That’s the secret. When your walk is more of a limp, hang in there. Keep on keeping on, it’s the only way to walk in victory.
Psalm 119:1, “You’re blessed when you stay on course, walking steadily on the road revealed by God. You’re blessed when you follow his directions. ” MSG
Thanks for the encouragement to keep on limping. Reminded me of Genesis 32 when Jacob wrestled with God.
Oh yeah. I’ve definitely done my share of wrestling and limping
I needed to read that tonight Vickie. Thank you. 2 1/2 months of pulmonary rehab have passed. Got another lung infection, and will start back in rehab again this week. It’s a six-month course. I refuse to quit. There is not an ounce of quit in me. God has given me the strength to go forward, and that’s the only direction I intend to go. Love you, Vickie.
And He will keep giving you strength
Love your title. Great truths here! I’m so glad I found you today over at Jaime’s place.
Great to connect!