Strategy For The StruggleSample

# Join in the Discovery Don’t you know that I’m ready to pour out my spirit of wisdom upon you and bring to you the revelation of my words that will make your heart wise? Prov 1:23b (TPT) Recently on an adventure trip in the USA, I found myself on a vigorous uphill hike to a lake that I had no idea existed or even wanted to visit. Had it not been for my wife Andy, climbing with and encouraging me, I would probably never have chosen to go on this very steep and gruelling 4km hike. Andy wanted to go and so I agreed. I put my head down and climbed and climbed and climbed. Stopping often, out of breath because of the altitude (OK, also because I am not fit), asking those returning down “how far is it still to go?” “Is it worth it?” Someone encouraged us to count the number of bridges that crossed the river because there were seven and then we would know that we would be nearly there. After an exhausting climb, we rounded a corner and came across this most stunning and beautiful lake, perched on the edge of the Gleenwood cliffs in the Rockies. [IMAGE CONTENT] Then, there was a sign that pointed further up the cliffs to a waterfall that was the source of this amazing lake. The thought of climbing any more was not appealing to me at all, but because we had come so far, to not go all the way would have made no sense. So after a little more climbing, following the path, we discovered the most incredible sight. Crystal clear water pouring out of the middle of a rock cliff! [IMAGE CONTENT] Standing in awe of what I saw, walking behind the water pouring out of the rock, touching and feeling the water, it made me stop and contemplate a few things. Firstly I was so glad I made the effort and persevered to the end, because it was so worth it. Secondly, I know that I had experienced something that I would remember for the rest of my life! Thirdly, there was a great sense of accomplishment. It wasn’t so much the sight, because I was able to take photos to remind me, it was the exhausting struggle to get there and back and the relief when it was over. It made me think of the many times in life that I “chickened out” on opportunities that in the end, would have been well worth it. It also helped me reflect on the times that I struggled most in life, and I realise that those times have always produced the most growth in me. The struggle is real and we need strategies for our struggles. I want to invite you on a “hike” through 31 chapters of the Book of Proverbs. A journey to the hanging lake of revelation fed by the most extraordinary fountain of wisdom, the Rock Jesus Christ. Though the destination is very important and rewarding, the daily discovery of the practical skills to live this good life is what we are all in need of. Revelation pouring into our lives to “make our hearts wise”. Some of us have hiked this route before, and we are going to post encouragement along the way, but ultimately, we all have to put one foot in front of another and climb up the mountain and discover for ourselves what Wisdom will impart.