Yesterday I went hiking on Monte Sano. Just to get my hiking legs on, since this is the first time I have been hiking this year, I did the Southern Plat. Loop (3.5 miles). Nothing to major. It was nice to be out in creation. The hiking trip quickly turned in to a ‘prayer hike’ as I was wrestling with God for direction and understanding over some of the things I have been dealing with (read below). I do not believe prayer is a one-sided event. I believe prayer is a conversation. However, yesterday it seemed I felt as though it as one-sided. There is a verse that I have always thought applicable in times like those…
Deut.28:23 “And the heavens over your head shall be bronze…”
There are times when I imaging that all the ‘windows’ in heaven have been shut and it is like a solid sheet of bronze. Nothing goes in and nothing comes out. I know that is grossly out of context but it makes for good blogging. Perhaps I am spoiled. The conversation has been amazing… now things are quiet.
I think these are good times of reflection. These are good times to begin dealing with character issues and relationships. theses are good times to begin to pinpoint areas of life that need work. I guess when any person begins to line themselves up with God’s word, plan, and purpose there are these ‘Isaiah moments’ when you realize how jacked up you are…
Isaiah 6:5 “Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.”
It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the things to ‘fix’ in my life. Did you ever notice that it is easier to criticize someone else’s deficiencies than to deal with your own. I do not attribute much to Satanic activity in my life. However, I know that this is one of his playgrounds within me. It is so easy to get bitter or critical of other people… even friends, relatives, and co-workers. It is so easy to point out other peoples faults.
Jesus help me to keep my eyes focused on you. Help me to realize we are all have flaws, weakness, and struggles. Help me to cast off fear and doubt. Help me to walk in your power.
If anyone is interested, I am going to hike on the Friday’s I am off and on Saturdays. Monte Sano, Sipsey River, Land Trust Areas… If you want to go let me know…
