When Larry and I were younger, we used to go canoeing on the Current River. Usually, we had others to enjoy the ride with us. On one of our trips, we came upon a cave with a spring of water that fed the river. Several of us went in to take a look, and a few even jumped into the water. It was a welcome change from the sultry, hot day on the river. Normally, I am not the adventurous kind, but suddenly, something came over me, and I decided to jump in! The water was so cold that it took my breath away. It seemed that I was under the water forever, and when my head came up, all that I could see was not concerned spectators but big smiling mouths and the hideous sound of horrible, jeering laughter. Before I could say a word, I slid on the slimy bottom and again went into the icy abyss! Again, I tried, only to see the same audience that was clearly having fun at my expense. I raised my hand to let someone know that I was in trouble, only to slip again. I thought that I was going to die there in that slimy pit unless one of those gawkers got the clue that I was going down for the third time. Finally, I felt the big hand of my husband reach for me, and I was able to get to a firm place so that I could stand again.

Psalm 40:1-2 – I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. (NIV)

Sometimes, being in the slime and mud can mean that we have sin in our life, and we have to ask and trust God to pull us out of the miry clay that keeps us in the pit. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9 NIV) Other times, we can be in a spiritual rut and need to be rescued from the dark pit where we have found ourselves. There are times when even those closest to us do not see the difficulties that we are in because we are too embarrassed to tell anyone of our struggles. I have spent time in that place, and as I struggled to get out on my own, it was futile. All my willpower and determination could not help me. As I struggled to get my feet on solid ground, I would slide backwards, even more discouraged than before. Only when I was desperate enough to hold out my hand to the only One strong enough to pull me out did I feel solid ground beneath my feet. He set me on the rock of His salvation, and again, I could walk with Him.

Are you struggling alone? Jesus is waiting to give you His hand!

Prayer: Our dear Protector, without meaning to, we sometimes fall into the pit of despair. Sometimes, we jump headlong into the miry clay of poor decisions or even sin. Rescue us, Father, with Your strong hand of love! Amen.

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About the author:

Jeanie Nihiser <jnihiserj@gmail.com>
Geneseo, New York, USA
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