Moving Mountains
No matter how hard we try, it just seems that there are certain mountains in our life that we walk around and around and around. Somehow, we are unable to surmount the crest of those particular habits, insecurities, attitudes, mindsets, etc, and in spite of our best efforts, we find ourselves trekking in the same old, painful, uncomfortable steps, placing our new footprints into the pattern of the old tread marks, walking round and round the unfortunate mounds of dirt and rock.
Sometimes, however, those mountains are much larger and even more insurmountable than just habits or insecurities. They have, perhaps, even begun to blend together and form a range of unconquerable peaks. The feelings, thoughts, and actions attached to them have birthed obstacles, hurdles, and temptations. We have an abyssal spiritual connection to these mountains because they are, in truth, most likely deeply rooted sins.
Are we able to overcome these mountains? Yes, in fact, we are not only able to overcome the mountains and ranges but the little molehills we circle as well. The answer is best found in Psalm 51. First, we come to the Lord and say: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love…” (vs 1) Then we confess: “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight…” (vs 3,4) And then we ask: “Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” (vs 7) Humbly we request: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (vs 10) Full of hope, we petition: “Restore to me the joy of your salvation…” (vs 12a) And then, we plead:“…and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (vs 12b) Beautifully and ultimately, the joy of our freedom brings us here: “Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you.” (vs 13) And because our burdens have been removed and we understand the Lord’s kindness: “Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise.” (vs 15)
Today, let’s forgo the same old paths around the same old impediments and sins. Let’s follow the heart of King David as recorded in Psalm 51 and let God move our mountains.
–Katie Botello