I was blessed to spend some quality time with the granddaughters the other day and Avery the 4 year old informed me that next week she was going to Disney World.  This was news to me and to others in the family too, I’m sure.  “Who’s taking you?” I asked.  “You and my daddy.  And while I’m there I’m gonna ride a HUGE roller coaster as big as a mountain.”  “Won’t you be scared to ride a roller coaster as big as a mountain?” I inquired.  Avery replied without a second thought, “I won’t be scared because my daddy is gonna ride it with me.”

I was not surprised by her answer.  Just a few Saturdays ago when I was surfing channels the rodeo was on and Avery saw some cowboys riding bulls.  She declared, “I could do that…. if I was sitting in my daddy’s lap.”  I love that girl.  And I love the faith and trust she places in her earthly father.  As a Christian I pray that I may express and exhibit the same faith and trust in my heavenly Father.  Sometimes life does get a little crazy.  Sometimes we feel like we are on a roller coaster as HUGE as a mountain or we feel like we have been asked to take our turn riding or facing a raging bull.  Certain situations can be scary and intimidating.  As Christians we must know that we never face these situations alone or in our own power.  The Bible reminds us of God’s presence and His power in several passages.  I am particularly fond of this verse in Joshua 1: 9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Today you may face the roller coaster of a relationship that needs some stability.  You may face the need to begin a new job, a new ministry or need to simply continue on in a task that has been very difficult and the thought scares you just as much as a thought of riding a bull scares this 50 year old man who bruises very easily.  Whatever path is set before you, remember that you do not walk it alone.  You do not walk it in your own power.  Be strong!  Be courageous!  Do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.  Until next time, stay strong in the faith.