Friday, May 4, 2012

Rocks?

As for God, his way is perfect:
      The Lord’s word is flawless;
      he shields all who take refuge in him.
For who is God besides the Lord?
And who is the Rock except our God?

     It is God who arms me with strength
     and keeps my way secure.     ~Psalm 18:30-32

Walking along rivers, I'm careful of my footing, testing each rock before I put weight on it. Especially as I age, the last thing I want to do is step on an unsteady rock and splash into the water! In life I'm not always as careful and sometimes am surprised to find myself suddenly soaked. Not all rocks are the same. They come in various forms, and there is only one true solid rock.

I've looked for stability in different rocks:

Abilities: Dancing gave me such comfort, joy, and power. I would escape into a world all of my own. It would take away any fears, stresses, or sadness. It was beautiful and effortless. I would find myself flying and able to do anything. Interpreting for the deaf filled me with joy. I loved being able to help others communicate and bridge a gap. It was challenging and growing for me. I have other 'pebble-sized' abilities, I would love to nurture - photography, cooking, quilting, playing the piano and clarinet for starters. What happens? Accidents, medical conditions, and even priority of time can bring these abilities to an end or slow them down.

Achievements: As a child I was excited to receive ribbons, pins, and trophies for various activities. An oratory award was one of my highlights. I had worked tremendously on a speech and was happily surprised by the plaque. My idea of achievements as I matured has changed. What a joy for my husband and I to have twins and then to be blessed with another! Ha! Even getting back to a size 6 after my last son was an achievement. What happens? Time... life... My 'achievements' seem minimal now... getting dinner on the table, the kids to their current sport, church, or doctors on time, finishing laundry, and even dusting once in a blue moon.

Approval from others: Granny and Grandma. I always had their approval. Being around them was like a little bit of heaven on earth. I knew I was special and loved just being in their presence. I never had to worry about saying or doing the right or wrong thing. Oh, I miss them! Unfortunately, I unnecessarily seek others' approval and often question if I have it ~ friends, parents, other family, supervisors, co-workers, husband, and even my children. I'm thrilled to see this compulsion occur less and less in my life.

Which of these is the most anchored? None. Abilities change and can be lost. Achievements bring temporary joy and leave me wanting more. Approval is never achieved, fades, or is severed. God is my ONLY rock. Whenever I move from His foundation or hop onto another rock, I fall. He gives me salvation, joy, comfort, strength, blessings, love, guidance, and so much more. Christ walks with me through the valleys, peaks, and everywhere in between. He is my rock. He never moves. If I've fallen, it's because I've moved. The best part? Christ will pick me up and carry me until I'm strong again to walk.

Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
      my hope comes from Him.
Truly He is my rock and my salvation;
      He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God;
      He is my mighty rock, my refuge.      ~Psalm 62:5-7