Desert Journey – Day 21
Funny, the song that comes to mind this morning. It was a hit by Billy Ocean in the mid 80’s. “When the Going gets Tough, the Tough get Going.” I often forget that obstacles are very much a part of doing God’s work.
The Apostle James said it this way, “consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
Jesus and I are continuing to walk. I hear him say, spiritual agility. The ability to adjust and move quickly. Adaptation. When I think of agility, a gymnast comes to mind. They are graceful, flexible, nimble and sure-footed. I have never thought of being spiritually agile before, yet it makes perfect sense. My response to facing obstacles is usually one of grumbling, stumbling, frustration and at times defeat.
A new perspective to internalize: considering obstacles pure joy and responding with spiritual agility, to test faith and produce perseverance. I can think of a multitude of examples where obstacles have temporarily derailed me. An area of growth for sure.
Spiritual agility. I would like to develop this trait and react to obstacles with adaptability and quick movements. Jesus tells me, it is with much less consternation that one moves along the path with spiritual agility.
Much to contemplate.
Right there with you, dear sister. For me it has been how to maintain stability yet remain flexible through the storms of life…now I am thinking of how to be agile and able.
I love this – and I am laughing that Jesus used the word consternation. It is well suited to how you face a challenge, dear friend! I was looking through old photographs recently and saw pictures of the water obstacle course we tackled at boy scout camp. It was so much fun; we did it until our arms were jelly! We begged all our reluctant group to try it with us, assuring them we would help them conquer each slippery challenge. Oh, how I wish I could apply the same enthusiasm to life’s challenges! Agility is such an appealing goal and trait – how do I re frame challenges to encourage agility?
It’s indeed all joy and happiness to face trials and struggles in the world.