Lord God All-Powerful, who is like you? Lord, you are powerful and completely trustworthy. (Psalm 89:8)
Ponder It.
What are your horseback riding experiences?
Do you consider horseback riding to feel uncertain or secure?
Where would you rather be: in your easy chair or out and about, having an adventure?
Receive It.
Riding horses can be more adventurous than you might think. Sure, if you’ve only ridden one of those steady steeds that have been broken in to ride a trail over and over again, you might find settling into the saddle as relaxing as settling into your favorite recliner. Well, perhaps not quite that comfortable, but…
The reality is horseback riding often involves more surprises than you think. Like the time my dad and I were riding bareback together in the open field, when the horse decided she didn’t want anyone riding her any longer. She won, and we ended up on the ground. Or the time I was on a trail ride in the hills of Missouri, where I expected beautiful views but not much danger…until we stepped just beyond a ridge of trees, and the trail followed a narrow ledge in the side of a steep bluff. I sure hoped my horse was sure-footed. I’ve ridden in Mexico and stretched my feet out on the horse’s mane to keep my shoes dry as we swam across the river (now I know lying forward with my feet by the tail is a better option). I watched a woman already terrified of horses have her fear confirmed as her usually mild-mannered horse spooked and took off into the woods.
Riding horses takes your feet off the ground, trusting the horse to make a firm foundation with the ground and take you along the trail. The horse boosts you up to see views you’d otherwise miss. You can feel the power beneath you with each step up or down a hill—power in motion. When you stop and think about it, there are quite a few similarities between riding a horse and trusting God. You could stay on the ground where you feel a bit more in control, but you can still trip, and you’ll have a lot less power than you have with the horse, not to mention limited perspective. You’ll have to yield some control, but that’s okay. Humility is good for faith.
Live It.
Get out of your easy chair and sit in an uncomfortable chair. Sit up straight, and avoid leaning back for comfort. Go ahead and read a book or get some typing done. Watch a television show. Whatever you’d normally do in your easy chair. It’s not quite as comfortable, and you’ll have to use some different muscles as you get used to doing something a bit different. Be appreciative of the strength and power you have for many situations you experience every day—even the uncomfortable ones.
Today’s post is part of a 30-day devotional of Adventures in Faith. A new post will be available each morning to launch your day with reflection questions, God’s Word, and a personal challenge. Invite your friends!