HANDRAILS

Psalm 119:133 “Direct my steps by Your Word, and let no iniquity have dominion over me.” Like most people, I have stumbled on stairs plenty of times over a lifetime. Though I was often reminded by others, I am not sure why it took me so long to recognize the value of handrails. It’s not that I had never been instructed, I just thought they were for others, not me. I still forget sometimes but it only takes the slightest slip to send me reaching for the rail’s stabilizing safety. Actually, my whole life requires equilibrium and boundaries each and every day. David’s prayer in Psalm 116:8 expresses why I am confident this new day: “For You have delivered my soul from death, My eyes from tears, And my feet from falling.” God, in His immense goodness, provides the handrails of His Word and Spirit to keep me safe from foolhardy ways. And as with all handrails, I must hold onto the Word and Spirit each and every step, not waiting until I’m already falling. Father of All Mercies, thank You for Your steadfast patience and constant care. Guide my steps and use me to help others make it safely through the ups and downs of this world.