One step at a time

Have you ever wondered where you're going or what your next step in life will be? Maybe you are supercharged after a really nice vacation, or you're tired and feel you can't take another step?

Many times, I think we just keep walking through life. And it would be super hard if we had to think about every little step we take each and every moment of the day. But, if your legs all of a sudden don't work. Or all your strength is gone, then thinking about every step you take might be what you have to do.

Today was a very special day for my husband Monte and me. Monte has had two knee replacements done during the past eight months. And today marks the very first day since the operations that we could take a walk together with our dog Daisy. It was something we've longed for a long time. So we are very grateful for two successful surgeries and exceptional care at the hospital and rehab.But the past few months have also given us perspective on things we quickly take for granted when everything works, like being able to move freely and walk wherever you want to.

As we were walking today, Monte said he had to focus on the steps he took so that everything would go smoothly and he wouldn't hurt himself. When you, for some reason, have not been able to walk for a while, it's easy to get scared or insecure when taking the next step. But, everything went well for Monte, and it gets better with each step he takes.

I think this is a good picture of how it feels in life sometimes. When we meet new challenges or maybe the same challenge for the 100th time, the next step can be like a mountain to climb; fear and insecurity can show up like an unwelcome guest.

But God has promised He will walk before us.

We never have to take the next step alone. God is with us, and He walks before us!

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you: he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid: do not be discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8 )

Every journey begins with a first step. So, what journey are you on right now? What steps do you need to take to move forward? Regardless of how you feel concerning what lies ahead, I want to remind you that God himself goes before you and that He has promised to be with you.

In that promise, we can gather inspiration, courage, and the power to move on.

So start with one step and let it turn into more steps, one after the other.

Life is an adventure. My prayer for you and myself is that we will take our next step with anticipation and excitement and in security, knowing that God Himself walks before us.