Stand Tall!
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I have a cat. I also have a soft, plush, unanchored book holder for my lap. It is actually quite stable as long as I use it for what is intended—to hold a book, an iPad, or a Kindle. But it was never meant to be walked on, sat on, or slept on by a living, breathing, eight-and-a-half-pound cat. It does not hold Dusty steady at all.
Rather, it tilts this way and that under her weight and movement, threatening to launch her into the air at any moment—which it did the first time she tried it.
I managed to catch her before she hit the floor.
I now realize her need for my care whenever she heads my way and appears to have designs on my lap. Now, I quickly clear the way, removing the book, iPad, or Kindle, and invite her up. She loves to climb on the holder, confidently placing her front feet on its highest point to attain the greatest height. From there, she looks serenely about—mistress of all she surveys. However, if I do not have a finger on it somewhere, and a finger is all it takes, it will tip, and over she would go. I am a lot like Dusty. I tend to move somewhat unthinkingly through my days and nights, largely unaware that I am being protected from myself, that Someone is controlling the situation and the circumstances, preventing me from being badly thrown, making it possible for me to hold steady. That Someone is Jesus, who loves me.
As I do for Dusty, Jesus works quietly and lovingly behind the scenes.
Actually, sometimes He works in ways that are clear to me.
When I recognize what He is doing, even as He’s doing it, to keep me from being hurt and to bring joy into my life, I feel unafraid—for He’s fulfilling His promise to strengthen and help me. He is holding me with His righteous right hand, and I have no reason to be afraid.
My friend, He is doing the same for you. Allow Him to hold the ground steady beneath your feet. Take full advantage of all He makes possible for you.
And stand tall, unafraid, strong in the strength He provides.
Carolyn K. Karlstrom
