I have discovered that God is like a rock.
Rocks are my best friends…or most scathing enemies. Encountering rocks is a common experience when hiking in the mountains. During the years that my brother, children, and I hiked, rocks provided a common feature on the trails we traveled. Sometimes, they slowed us down significantly.
One of our favorite mountain destinations required passing over a mountain appropriately named Rocky Mountain. Especially in the winter months, we had to choose our steps carefully. Rocks were wet, and water quickly turned to ice. These same wet rocks attract algae in the summer months, making them as slippery as when ice coated them.
But rocks also carry advantages. When on a steep incline of a particularly high mountain, rocks provide firm footing that soil itself doesn’t give, making the climb easier.
Using a metaphor, David said his God was a rock. “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety” (Psalm 18:2 NLT).
Certain characteristics of God reminded David of rocks, which he was no doubt familiar with. He had been a shepherd who allowed sheep to graze in fields dotted by rocks. I’ve discovered the same truth as David.
- God remains when others walk out.
Large boulders are unmovable without heavy equipment or geographical upheavals. We can depend on God to be there for us when others aren’t. He will never disappoint. Rockslides are common in the mountains, but God is unlike any of those rocks dislodged by water, construction, or tremors. He remains steadfast.
- God provides a firmer footing for life.
Our life footing is solid when we stand on a relationship with God and the principles of His Word. Even when troubles and trials come, He gives us the footing of grace, wisdom, and faith to press on without bitterness, anger, and frustration.
- God provides more than I can see.
The bulk of many rocks is underground. The evidence of God’s work in our lives is never as apparent as what is happening. He is forever behind the scenes, molding us into the image of Christ and working for our good. He may seem hidden in tragedies, crises, and tough times, but never is.
Let God be the rock in your life. He will never disappoint you but will provide the stability you need for every life event.
-Photo by Pietro De Grandi on Unsplash
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