Mountaintops

Do you ever wonder why it is that sometimes we experience more “valleys” than “mountaintops” in life?  A few more thorns, perhaps, than roses? 

I believe the lull between the two are periods of growth, or “seasoning,” as some people call it.  In order to fully appreciate joy, we must first walk the lonesome roads of heartache I think.  The sudden loss of loved ones, the debilitating illness of a family member or friend, the untimely demise of a long-held career–all can cause our safe, little worlds to crumble within a few, fragile moments.

For those who place their trust and faith in God, it’s easier because we know that He’s our safety net and, ultimately, He has a plan even when we can’t comprehend how that can possibly be so.  (Notice I said “easier,” not “easy.”)

Even as Christians, we have our times of doubt, worry, anger, and mourning.  Yet while everything is collapsing around us during our journey through the valley, our loving Father is grooming us for the rocky hike up the hillside–the final destination being our faithful reward, the stupendous mountaintop! 

We are finally able to rest for a while.  Sometimes we’re allowed to linger there just briefly.  At other times, our respite with deliverance may last a bit longer–days, weeks, even years!  More often than not, though, that’s not always the case. 

I know in my own life, God has allowed me to dwell on the mountaintop for shorter periods until venturing back down.  I try to enjoy the view while I can, however, gathering strength, courage, and insight as I prepare for my next trip back down the lonesome trail.  Sometimes it’s a familiar trail.  At other times, it’s a newer, unsettling path.  And when I feel the pinpricks of discouragement, I try to look up and gaze at that ol’ mountaintop I just came down.  That  gives me the strength I need to endure the new valley and focus on the next mountaintop before me.

A question for you to ponder…What’s your thought on “mountaintops?”

Blessings Always,