Keep on Climbing!

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith (II Timothy 4:7, NASB).

Sherrye and I were at the rock climbing center this evening cheering Jonathan on as he climbed the various courses on the wall that were chosen for the competitors. He did very well and worked hard. The courses selected were progressively harder and eventually became too hard for some to complete. In watching him and thinking about my article for this week I thought of the apostle Paul and his struggle to succeed in living the Christian life.

Paul had many obstacles to overcome and much of his Christian life was spent climbing up through various courses of life. I am sure these courses became progressively harder and yet Paul was able to persevere to the end. As we journey through various courses of our daily lives, remember that with perseverance and God’s help we can not only endure, but be successful all the way to the top and enjoy our home in heaven.

As Jonathan climbed there was a belayer that always had a firm grip on the other end of his rope as he climbed the wall. There was also a monitor to watch him and many, who had already climbed the wall, were giving him guidance as where to grab and hold. In addition, there was a host of others (including ourselves) encouraging him in his ascent to the top. In many ways this is similar to us as we climb through our Christian life. There are many who have been through various difficult courses in life and are willing to offer help to us. There are those who keep a firm grip on our rope to protect us if and when we fall. And assuredly there are fellow Christians always ready to encourage us in our efforts to live faithfully.

Let’s all strive to be as helpful to others as we can, and let’s resolve to keep on climbing.

For the elders, Gregg Woodall