A Walk in the Black Forest
by Tanya Person
Recently we went for a walk in the Black Forest. In the beginning, the path was wide and level and as we walked, we admired the way the sun came through the trees. I stopped a few times to take pictures. Then we came to a place where the path was narrow. We had to walk careful over roots and rocks. I found that I had to keep my eyes on the ground and walk very carefully, so I wouldn`t fall. Suddenly, I remembered the beginning of the walk and how beautiful the forest was. I felt God telling me to stop and look up. So, I paused and looked up and around and admired where we were. Then I put my gaze back at my feet and kept walking.
I felt the Lord showing me how this is like our life. When things are fairly smooth in our life it’s easy to be cheerful and see the beauty around us. But when we come to hard times, and we all do, from time to time, every step becomes a concentrated effort and it takes all the focus and energy we have to keep going. God reminded me that in these hard times, it’s important that we remember to pause occasionally and look up. There’s still beauty around us. As we pause in our struggle and look to Him, He refreshes us and gives us strength to continue.
Wherever you find yourself today, whether in the valley or on the mountaintop, on a rough path or smooth, I encourage you to pause a moment, lift your eyes, and remember that your help comes from the Lord. He’s with you each step of the way and will give you the help you need to continue on the path He’s set before you.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You’re my help.Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to walk the path in my own strength and wisdom. Help me to remember to stop and look to You for my strength and help. Amen.
Tanya Person Tanya and her husband, Jim, were missionaries to Hungary for over 18 years. They have worked with Ellel since 2005. After serving in various positions with Ellel in Central and Eastern Europe, God led them back to the United States, where they are now serving with the Ellel USA team. They have a passion to see leaders restored, the church discipled and walking in God’s fullness of life and freedom, and for mentoring the existing and developing team. Tanya also enjoys crocheting and knitting in her free time and has written some children’s picture books.
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