I will never forget my first skiing experience. After enjoying my first ride on a ski lift, I stumbled onto the snow and glanced down at the steep slope below. My friend, an experienced skier, began to explain how to start and stop. But I was eager to get moving. I pushed myself forward, tucked my ski poles under my arms, and plunged ahead. I went speeding straight down the mountain, smugly racing past my friend who was now shouting in an attempt to slow me down. I ignored him and plowed through the snow, loving the rush of icy cold wind on my face. I wanted to conquer that mountain.
Danger Ahead
Suddenly, I realized I was approaching the bottom of the slope. At the same moment, I also realized I could not slow down, and I certainly could not stop myself. Instead, I was abruptly stopped by a clump of trees. After that, I listened to my friend’s advice and learned how to stop before I started down the mountain again.
At times, I attempt to fight spiritual battles just as I approached my first ski trip—with too much confidence and not enough preparation. I neglect to study the Bible, pray, and meditate on God’s truths. I grow complacent and forget to be on guard against Satan’s tricky schemes.
Be Prepared
When I plunge into life without taking time to prepare for the guaranteed trials ahead, I am easily led astray. When I try to rely on my own strength, forgetting to “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10), I inevitably suffer. I am taken by surprise when temptations and hardships arise. I end up stumbling, falling, and getting hurt.
I want to stop and prepare before attempting to face spiritual battles on my own. I want to regularly renew my mind with God’s truths. I want to slow down, stand firm, and stay close to the one true source of strength. Only then will I be able to conquer the mountains in life. |L
Michelle Webster lives in Okeana, Ohio with her husband Charles and their two daughters, Abigail and Kayla. She and her family are involved in the Harrison site of LifeSpring Christian Church. Michelle is the daughter of The Lookout’s executive editor, David Faust.
