Daily devotional, Jan 7, 2023 Hanging Bridge
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3
In a tropical island nation like the Philippines, suspension bridges are popular tourist attractions. I once again had an opportunity to cross one, and as usual my fear of heights has been rekindled once more.
As I traversed the almost 100-meter long hanging bridge, my racing heartbeat contended with the thoughts running in my head. Thoughts that included amazement with the unobstructed views of nature; fearsome and worrisome thoughts; regrets about why I subjected myself to the torture of crossing that bridge; and the thought that I could get past the challenge with God’s help.
There, it dawned on me that crossing a scary bridge like that is much like our Christian walk. That challenges, fears, and refreshing views are all part of it, but for me to get to my goal I should fix my eyes on Jesus, and not allow myself to get distracted by both the beauty and the challenges of life.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-2
As I tried to brave the crossing, I thought to myself that I could get to the other side by focusing on what was in front of me. I should not look back anymore, and resist the urge to keep on checking what’s behind me and how far I have reached. By doing so, I do not get paralyzed by thoughts that my snail-paced progress will keep me from reaching my destination. This is akin to not allowing regrets, past failures and sins to hinder you from achieving your spiritual goals of coming near Jesus and claiming eternal life.
"Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14
I also figured out that to get to where I want to go, I should not focus on the risks and problems of my journey. Looking beneath me as I cross the bridge will just freeze me with terror. Even in our daily life, fear can be very paralyzing. To continue my walk, I should keep moving, and that movement should be towards the Lord. I should focus on Him, His mighty power, His promises, and how he has carried me through terrifying situations in the past.
"It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8
Another thing that could keep me from reaching my destination is by getting too distracted with the awesome views. Since the bridge is suspended by almost 40 meters, the wonderful views of the rainforest, the streams, and the horizon are breathtaking. Of course it is okay to stop, rest a while, and admire the sights. But if I stop way too long to keep on admiring it, I might lose my momentum to power through my journey.
This is the same thing as being in love with the world. If we become enamored by worldly pursuits such as fame, fortune, and pleasures, we might give in to sinning and lose sight of our goal to get to Jesus’ arms.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2
Lastly, I should not compare myself with fellow bridge crossers. Yes, I can always get inspiration from people who have successfully crossed over, but I should not get to a point where I compare my pacing from theirs.
Likewise, I should try to zone out the terrifying shrieks of other people behind or in front of me, as well as the jeers of those who are trying to frighten me. I should remind myself that we are crossing the bridge as individual persons with different experiences, fear threshold, and foresight so that I would not imbibe their fears and negativity.
If there is anything that I should listen to, then it should be the positive encouragement of people around me who have made it to the finish line. I can also listen to the coaching of the tour guide, who by experience, has helped a lot of people cross the bridge.
In our Christian walk, we will meet people who live their faith, and then there are others who may still have a lot of room for spiritual improvement. We should at least be able to discern whom to look upon so that we could be guided in our journey to Jesus’ heart.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Hebrews 12:1-17 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: How is your faith journey so far? How has focusing on Jesus helped you in your daily life?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, I praise and thank you for guiding me through my faith walk and life journey. Please allow me to pursue my walk with you and be in your presence forevermore. Amen.