Whenever I go hiking and come to a stream blocking my path, I immediately begin looking for rocks I can step on to help me cross without getting my feet wet. Likewise, in life, we can expect things to come our way that initially appear to be blockades to our path. They cause us to pause our progression and even threaten to leave us all wet.

Thankfully, our faith supplies various stepping stones in our life to help us successfully cross any obstacles that comes our way:

Respectfulness: Reverence and respect for God are powerful components to our faith. For without respect for God, what would our response be to His word, His people and His purposes? We would begin to pick and choose tenants according to our preferences and desires, rather than His, and sadly, this is what some do. However, when we respect what He says is true and act accordingly, we begin to experience the supernatural power His presence provides through all kinds of weather (Isaiah 41:10).

Thankfulness: God doesn’t need our thanks. He does what He does because of His grace, mercy and love for us, but He does know a grateful heart is a healthy heart. Therefore, our faith leads us to be thankful in all things, trusting He lovingly allows all things for the good of those who love Him and are called to His purposes (Romans 8:28). This gratitude then spills over into contentment and through contentment, we experience fulfillment, fulfillment fuels praise, which circles back to propel our thankfulness which helps us meet any challenge confidently and courageously.

Mindfulness: Being mindful is to be attentive and aware. Thus, this component of our faith helps us realize we live in a dangerous world, filled with temptations and distractions. So, we are to be on guard. Much like a football player who suits up and expects to be hit during the game – he doesn’t act surprised when tackled. For he knows the hits will come and after they do, he gets back in the game, ready to score. Likewise, may we be mindful to suit up, expect the hits, and then quick to get up, always ready to go for the goal (Ephesians 6:11).

Application: “Cross-Walk” – Hebrews 12:1-2
Faith is not living by sight, but by what we know to be true. This means we don’t go by feelings – for they waiver and can’t be trusted, but God never waivers and can always be trusted. Therefore, the greatest rock and foundation we have in this life is Jesus Christ. He fuels our faith through His Spirit and helps us meet any obstacle that comes our way. For all we have to do is look to cross to remember who He is, what He did and what He continues to do today.