Ups, downs, and flying!

My wife Liz and I had a great day out yesterday.
We went cycling in the Glentress forest, near Peebles.

Cycle routes of several different grades have been laid out in the forest. Although it was hard work cycling up the hills, we had great fun swooping down through the twisty and bumpy downhills.

Some of the uphills were fun too, especially on the twisty switchbacks, and the sudden steep inclines.

As we were cycling along, looking out through the trees to magnificent views across the valley, I thought that our cycling experience was quite like life in general.

Often we have to push hard when we are going through difficult times, when our work experience is difficult or even non-existent. Or we might be suffering from relationship difficulties within our family, or amongst our friends. Or perhaps it is ill health that is making life difficult.

But at other times life can be an exhilarating rush. We might have just started a new job, or received an unexpected promotion. Or we might have formed a lifelong loving relationship. Or maybe that health scare has been turned round and now we feel marvellous.

God not only longs to share your joy at living when times are good, but He longs to help you through the pain and hardship when life is difficult. Even though we do not know Him well, or maybe not even at all, God knows each of us intimately. And He loves you, despite all your imperfections.

God has the resources to enable each of us to live life well, to know His love, joy, and peace. But He won't force Himself upon you. Give Him a chance to be a part of your life. Talk to Him. He not only listens, but responds too.