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During my working career, for a period of about ten years, I travelled considerably. We were stationed in Europe at that time, and I flew to many different countries. When checking in at each airport, I would be told to which gate to go, and in many places, big overhead signs would show the direction, sometimes involving a long walk down crowded corridors.
For those who did not want to walk all that distance, there were moving walkways, also known as autowalks, moving sidewalks, or travelators. They are slow-moving conveyor mechanisms that transport people to the various departure gates for short or medium distances.
Where a moving walkway is about to end, there is a voice warning, like "Mind your step", that there is a change ahead, and that the passenger has to be careful. On occasion, I have seen that a person who did not pay attention would stumble and almost fall at the end or even at the beginning of a moving walkway.
As we walk on the road of life, there are times when we stumble, times when we struggle, times when we are discouraged, times when we doubt or rebel. But we are not unique. Even the disciples, who were with Jesus almost every day, had times when they did not walk in the way that Jesus had taught and instructed them.
They told parents to go away when they brought their little children to see Jesus.
They were afraid during a storm on the Sea of Galilee, even when Jesus was with them.
Judas was so unhappy with Jesus that he betrayed Him to the authorities.
Peter denied that he even knew Jesus — three times, no less.
Most of the disciples abandoned Jesus at the time of His trial and crucifixion.
Thomas doubted that it really was Jesus when He came to the disciples after His resurrection.
It appears that they, too, stumbled at various times in their lives. They did not heed the words of comfort that Jesus spoke all the time that they were with Him. But we also know that after Jesus ascended to heaven, they went out and preached the gospel boldly and with power. In Peter's letter to the new Christians, probably in the area of what is now eastern Turkey, he wrote to tell them that even when they stumbled, God would be with them.
1 Peter 2:21 – For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow in His steps. (NKJV)
It is difficult at times to follow in Jesus' steps, and there are times when we, too, will stumble. During those times, we need to hear His words, "Mind your step."
Prayer: Our Father in heaven, we confess that there are times when we do not walk in the paths of righteousness, times when we fail to listen to Your words. When we do, we ask that You would forgive us and guide us in Your way. We ask it in Jesus' name. Amen.
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Amen, Joel.
Thank you, Joel, well said.
Great post, Joel. Thanks, and God bless!
Thanks, Joel. It’s comforting to know we have guidance.
Thank you, Joel, for this timely devotional reminder. Blessings.
Amen Joel.
Be blessed.
How well I recall those ‘moving sidewalks,’ which I would not even dare to approach. What a very apt illustration of our daily walk with Christ! I shall never see one now without thinking of your words. The Bible sure has a lot to stay about steps. Thank you.
Hello Joel,
Thank you for this devotional. A very good analogy of the stumbling on a moving walkway and the stumbling that can happen on our life walk. Seeking Jesus and following His guidance gives us a sturdy path to follow resulting in a more joyful existence.
Blessings for your thoughtful writings.
(B.C.)
Thank you for such a meaningful devotional.
I am working through a sad situation in our church.
Issue for me is forgiveness.
Thanks for reminding me that even the best don’t mind their steps.
Asking God to help me mind mine.
Shalom.
Thank you, Joel, for your thoughts shared with us today. It’s 104* at almost 5. Thank the Lord for the swamp coolers that keep us comfy. As in every city and small time, there are always those who have so little or nothing. Ours is a small city and with our BIG earthquake a while ago, it was a time it was get out and help one another experience. Then several months later the country came to a sudden “shut down” and we’ll never get back to the same again. What surprises me is to see so many Christians who are fearful. My answer is, We know Who is in charge, and we need to be ready.” No, it’s not easy to wear the masks, not visiting with our friends, watching our church on our TV, not going out to dinner, etc. I’ll be working on my needlepointing and suddenly I know I need to make a cheerful checkup call on a friend I haven’t seen in several months. I have so very much to be thankful for, and I have visits with the Lord several times a day. So your words today are so special. God is good, God is great, and I thank Him for my friend Joel.
I have been on those walkways in the Toronto airport, and know exactly what you mean. Interesting comparison.
Thank you.
Dear Joel,
Thank you for: “In Peter’s letter to the new Christians, probably in the area of what is now eastern Turkey, he wrote to tell them that even when they stumbled, God would be with them.
It is difficult at times to follow in Jesus’ steps, and there are times when we, too, will stumble. During those times, we need to hear His words, “Mind your step.”
I have hip problems right now and awaiting a visit to the doctor.
I thank God that he heals in many ways. And forgives.
Keep writing.