Breathing Easy in God's Care

Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. HEBREWS 12:1 NKJV 

All I have to do is think about my first attempt at running on the beach and I feel like I have to stop and catch my breath. It can’t be compared to treadmill, trail, or street running. For me, it was difficult and hard to enjoy. I decided quickly I was more of a beach walk girl. I see runners on the beach all the time and they make it look easy. And inspiring. And enjoyable. When people watch the way we live our lives, serving God should look a lot like that. Inspiring, joyful, and filled with a sense of ease knowing we don’t have to worry, fear, or give up hope. Our countenance should never look like mine probably did during that first (and last) run on the beach—stressed, strained, and struggling to breathe. 

We have the beautiful freedom to breathe easy in God’s care. We should live with the same confidence David had when he prayed, “Show Your marvelous lovingkindness by Your right hand, O You who save those who trust in You” (PSALM 17:7 NKJV). We aren’t going to collapse on the course God has us running, no matter how impossible it looks or feels. His right hand signifies strength and help whenever we need it, however we need it. We trust, He saves. It sounds like we have the much easier task, but so many times we talk ourselves out of trusting, slide into our self-sufficient shoes, and head out the door. 

What we see in the natural can persuade us to give up trusting in God’s supernatural power to save us. But in the faith race seeing is not believing. Believing God won’t fail is how we see our way through, and in time, how we see clearly that He was working things out all along. 

Father, I rest in the strength of Your right hand and trust You to move everything into place as I serve You with a fearless and hopeful heart. 

This is an excerpt from The Beach is Calling: 90 Devotions for Rest & Relaxation – a devotional now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.