I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

~Psalm 121:1-2 ESV

The top of the mountain is where we all want to live. Not some kind of “pie-in-the-sky, by-and-by” existence, but a life lived on the mountaintop of God’s leading.

We can trust Him. We love living here. Most of us, I believe, would prefer to dwell there permanently, but God will not let us do that, because we need the valleys.

In the valleys we learn to depend on God. Our valleys teach us things we need to learn. Through our battles, large and small, we learn to stand strong, lean on God and not give up when we’re diagnosed with a illnesses or diseases. We learn to trust God when we lose someone we love, or when our world turns upside down. We also learn to trust Him when life gets too stressful, too busy, or too out of control.

There are lessons to be learned on the mountaintop as well. We discern the direction God wants to lead us into. This is where we begin to enjoy Jesus and build our relationship with Him. Studying His Word and praying no longer become activities we just try to get through. Our Bible study and prayer times become joyful. As we begin to discern the direction He wants us to take, we are encouraged about the possibilities He has in store for us.

On the mountaintop we learn to be ourselves. We no longer need to pretend. Nor do we have to hide behind a façade anymore, and we are no longer insecure in our testimony. We learn that no one can define who we are in Christ Jesus – only God can define us. He allows us the freedom to become who He created us to be before the foundation of the world.

On the mountaintop we learn to love. When we finally realize just how much God loves us, we can reach out to others in love and service. We become His hands and His feet here on earth. God has placed us here to be His ambassadors, so we can draw others to Him. On the mountaintop we learn that no matter what lies ahead, we are safe in Him. We can trust in Jesus alone. Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV) says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” God is faithful, and He is good.

On the mountaintop we learn from God how to live when we are in the valley. He teaches us that we cannot always live on the mountaintop, because we learn the hard things in the valleys of our lives. On the mountaintop we learn the lessons which bring joy in the journey.

What are lessons God has taught you in the valleys and mountaintops?

Gracious God, You are my Rock and my Salvation. I am grateful You love me enough to teach me Your lessons through the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Continue to teach me while I dwell in the valleys of life, and let me find joy on the mountaintop.

In the sweet name of Jesus, amen.

Genre: Non-Fiction

Copyright 2020: He is… Faithful and Good: Evelyn Mason Wells: All Rights Reserved