A Firm Place to Stand

I waited patiently for the Lord;  he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit,  out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock  and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God Many will see and fear the Lord  and put their trust in him. Psalm 40:1-3 NIV

***One quick update on my healing from the accident (I’ve Fallen and Many Helped Me Up) which occurred 2 weeks ago today. I am up and walking by myself and without much pain. I am taking several walks each day. I have more flexibility and mobility with both of my arms, including good movement in my right shoulder. I know my ribs have not fully healed, but I can do most things by myself with little discomfort. Pam asked God to heal exponentially, and he is answering that request.***

As I asked the Lord what He wanted me to share which would be an encouragement to you , I felt drawn to the phrase, “a firm place to stand.” This passage is clearly a reference to God’s salvation. David was unable to help himself,  and It was God who pulled him out of his slimy pit and miry clay of circumstances. Praise God He brings us to the Rock of salvation which is Christ. Each of us should be ready to share how God rescued us from our own sinful condition.

But, I think there is more that God wants to encourage us with the phrase “firm place to stand.” We naivgte life better when there is certainty. Let’s take a look at some possible entanglements which are frustrating you at the moment which has you bogged down. I am trying my best to hear the word of the Lord for our lives rather than create a list.

Some miry clay possibilities

• Indecision. Whether it is to many options in front of you, fear of making a decision and moving forward, or an onslaught of stuff on your plate, the mire of indecision has caused you to be stuck in the mud. I have found that spending time in God’s word AND making a list clarifies the new direction  Habakkuk records writing down the vision to make it clear. Writing things down brings clarity for the next step.
• Worldly pleasures. These are not sinful activities per se, rather the routine of stuff has you stuck in a cycle that keeps you from moving forward. TV, Hobbies, and other time wasters put restraints to keep you from being where you want to go. Repentance and fasting are part of the cure to break free from this cycle. The grip of worldly entanglements are not easily broken, but God can help pull you away. Make sure you follow His lead.
• Too many lovers. We were created with a thirst for intimacy and a sense of belonging. Chasing after other things leaves less and less room for our first love with Jesus. The Book of Revelation tells us to repent and do the things we did at first to stimulate our love with Jesus. When we are too busy to incorporate worship (alone time to become enamored with our savior, Jesus), into our lives, we are chasing other loves. No other gods before Him is still applicable for us today.

What we can expect from a “firm place to stand”

• Peace
• Gratitude
• Clarity of what is most important
• Increased sensitivity to follow Jesus’ voice
• Boldness inspired by walking in step with Holy Spirit
• Courage  to take the next step of faith.
  • One step in God’s direction moves us away from the mire
  • One step in God’s direction is always another firm place to stand
  • One step in God’s direction shines light on the next available steps
  • One step in God’s direction allows us to sense the warmth of His favor and love

A firm place to stand is the Lord’s doing, We ask for the help. With gratitude,33333333333 we understand His grace and mercy extended to our lives to save.

I am believing that God is reaching down and pulling us up. Even health problems can rise to a firm place while healing is yet to come. The presence of illness does not nullify God’s ability to help you stand on His promises.

Like David, when you see God’s grace to raise you up, share the great things He has done for your life.

Blessings, Love ya’ll