I knew if I could make it to the top of the ridge, the difficult climb would be worth it. The magnificent vista below would be my reward. Scattered stones caused my feet to slip a few times, and brambles snagged my pants leg with their occasional bite …
But I pressed on.
The Lord is a Shade at My Right Hand
Shadows from the pine canopy made the light of the glorious vista ahead brighter. Clearer. The shadows gave me a respite from the day’s warmth and helped to energize my steps while thoughts of the Lord filled my heart, The Lord is my Keeper; the Lord is a shade at my right hand.* For He has been a defense for the helpless, a defense for the needy in his distress, a refuge in the storm, a shade from the heart.**
Oh, how wonderful is the love of God! When the journey becomes too difficult to navigate on my own, He is faithful to carry me as a father carries his child in the wilderness. I can feel the grip of His hand in mine as He leads me on … no matter how rough the terrain.
In the cool of the shadows along the forest edge, I noticed a pop of purple. A tiny violet tilted its face toward me. I smiled at the thoughtfulness of the Lord to remind me of His joy in the wilderness.
You see, many years ago upon the death of my mom and then again upon the death of my dad, the Lord gave me a solitary azalea bloom the color of fuschia, in the throes of chilly fall days to remind me that with Him, there is always joy in the wilderness. Those solitary blooms that were out of season were special, personal messages to me from the Lord. He knew I would understand what He was saying to me in my devastation.
He is my joy. He is my peace.
I do not walk alone.
A Magnificent Vista is Well Worth the Arduous Climb
The climb to His mountaintop is difficult. The path is littered with debris, but His presence is strong. If we look up, we can see the light up ahead and remember what awaits us — the magnificent vista that can only be seen from the high, heavenly places.
Though the climb is arduous, the reward is great — He is our exceedingly, great reward. Press on. Keep clinging to His hand as He leads you on.
A magnificent vista awaits.
Selah
*Psalm 121:5 **Isaiah 25:4
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Thank you so much for stopping by. I would love for you to share what’s on your heart in the comments below. Scroll a little farther down and you’ll see where you can leave your comments. Together, we can find the nearness of God in our darkest moments.
Sweet blessings to you,
Thank you Nan, I needed this today as I sit here in this room at the Hospice House with my daughter, I look out the window and see the beautiful sun shining, though it’s dark in side this room Gods Love Shines All Around!!
I’m so thankful for His Spirit that wraps us in His love and steadies our hearts. I can only imagine how painful this is for you.
Father, hold my sister and wipe her tears. Strengthen her to endure this unbearable sorrow. We are so thankful for the hope of glory, that magnificent vista of heaven that awaits Your children where there is no more pain, no more tears, and no more suffering. I ask that You would make Yourself known in powerful, yet tender ways that her heart will recognize. Comfort as only You can comfort and bring peace … Your perfect peace … into this difficult place. Saturate the hospice room with Your precious Spirit and ministering angels. Thank You, Lord. We love You and we give You praise. In the Name of Jesus, I pray, amen
I’m praying for you, your daughter, and your family. Sweet blessings to you, Nan
Thank you for the encouragement. It’s so hard. Some days are literally survived minute by minute. Glad for a glimmer of hope.
I’m so thankful this ministered to you. Keep looking up with eyes fixed on Jesus. He alone is our hope and our fountain of joy. His love will never fail you. Rest in the moment with Him, then move to the next moment because He will be there with you, too. Cling to His hand, and moment by moment Jesus will lead you through the fire. Sweet blessings to you, Nan
Hey Nan, hope all is well at your household. I keep you and your family in prayer daily, God is so good to us! My ex wife Anita found out she has bladder cancer last week, please keep her in prayer. Thank you!
Bless her heart. I’m so sorry to hear this. Thank you for letting me know. I’m praying for Anita right now …