A strong spring breeze accompanied my walk around the block today. In one direction the wind came at me from behind. It moved me and seemed to carry me farther than my own efforts might have on their own. From the other direction I faced the gusts head on. Every step seemed wearisome and for all the exertion, I was covering little ground.
I began to contemplate the parallels of works and grace. Just then, I realized the path that was so difficult was NOT the uphill bumpy one. It was the straight shot down hill that gave me so much trouble. Sheer momentum and minimal effort should have propelled me along the downhill portion at a sharp pace - but not walking against the powerful blasts of air. Conversely, as I approached the incline, I actually walked faster and easier - thanks to the strong, warm wind pushing me onward.
What a great image of "keeping in step with the Spirit"! If God is calling me to do something...even if it seems difficult or impossible, His Spirit will provide all the power and energy necessary to finish strong. However, If I attempt to accomplish something in my own strength or that is in conflict with how He is moving, I am in for a battle.
"The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit." -John 3:8
