Stand Still or Step Out?
Grand Canyon 2016. I’m second from the right.
While going through some photos last week I opened a file with pictures from my tour of the national parks in 2016. I remember this photo in particular because out of a couple dozen fellow travelers only the five of us went out to the edge of a narrow trail in the Grand Canyon and just stood still.
Step forward and over you’d go! Truly. Or stay put and simply BE for a few seconds to take in the majestic view. I will never forget the thrill of that moment. It reminded me that when I’m too cautious in life I miss out. But if I’m too bold I risk injury or worse.
During this time of Covid-19 the question, “stand still or step out” pops up again and again for me and maybe for you too. Shall I join this group or that group? Donate here or there? Support this leader or that one? Read this book or some other?
To settle that question for myself, I’ve decided to follow the 12-Step slogan, “Easy Does It.” When my effort to force a solution or to power through a problem before pausing to inspect my options, I step into God’s territory and attempt to do what only God can do. That has NEVER worked for me, ever, not once.
So today, I am reminding myself to listen for the still small voice that always speaks to me when I take it easy and let go and let God lead me, whether hiking a challenging trail or conversing with someone with whom I disagree.
While standing on that ledge overlooking a tiny portion of the Grand Canyon that day I realized I had gone as far as possible at that time, even though the view was limited. More would be revealed to me when the time was right. So I settled in and simply enjoyed the view that was in front of me in that moment. It is a lesson that has guided me all the days since.
I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. (Philippians 4:11)
Yep! I listen to that still, small voice of the Holy Spirit and it works just fine!
Thanks, Chloe. I’m with you on that.
“…even though the view was limited. More would be revealed to me when the time was right.” Love how you said this. I am going to use that this week. I love it. Thanks, Karen.
Thanks, Heidi. We continue to recover together–what a blessing.
What a great message Mom. I tried to do that exact thing today.
Julie
Thanks, honey. So good to hear that pausing in the moment before taking action works for you too.
Thank you Karen again for your thoughts.
What a lovely voice our Lord has. I am very deaf but I “hear” Him in so many ways. I am learning to listen and enjoy Him as I stand in His presence.
Colin
Thank you, Colin. I love what you shared.
You are wise.
Janet, what a precious comment. Thank you.
Thanks, Karen. You are wise! You are also FAR more brave than me! smile!
I like the photo and of course reminded me of when Herb and I were at the Grand Canyon -but I was never as brave as you!
Our future is uncertain but we know WHO holds the future and I am so VERY thankful I know HIM and HE knows me. I just pray that my actions show Him how much I trust Him by following the way HE is leading me.
Blessings with love to you. Margaret
You are a leader yourself, Margaret. My readers love you as much as I do. You inspire us with your wisdom and long life.
Karen thank you so much for always sharing what the Lord is putting upon your heart. We can never hear to often how important it is to listen for that still small voice. When I get still and quiet… it’s so much easier to discern what the will of God is in our lives. It’s also a great reminder to enjoy the present moment. You are a gift to me all that know you.
Love you. Sandy
Thank you, Sandy, for your continuing friendship and encouragement.
Thank you dear friend. You are so very good at showing us the way 🙏. Love you SO much and miss our in person sharing! This too shall pass !! ❤️🙏❤️🙏🙏❤️
Thank you, Kathleen. I miss you and our hikes and walks and chats. May we be together again soon.
What a beautiful post, Karen. Thank you. I love your paragraph that says when you try to step out on your own it NEVER works well. So true for me as well. You’ve stated it very well. Thanks for the reminder to stop and listen for that still small voice to guide us.
Thank you, Carol. I really appreciate your comment and your friendship.