Saddle Up Anyway

In his youth, Floyd liked John Wayne movies.  Some of you probably don't even know who or what those are. :)  He was a "cowboy" actor - always the hero in the movie setting.  It was a long time ago!  In fact, one summer he even mowed John Wayne's lawn.  

John Wayne once said: "Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway."  I sometimes feel like that.  There are times when something happens and it's unbelievably hard to get in the saddle again!  I'm nervous or worried, but I choose to give my worries to the Lord and trust Him.  Thankfully He gives me grace to do that.  It's not always easy.  It's part of persevering too - which has been a major aspect of my journey in recent years.

When I was young, I was thrown off a horse one time.  I made myself get back on.....but I never enjoyed riding after that.  Whatever life throws at us, we have to keep going.  We have to keep holding onto the Lord's hand, and take the next steps in front of us....even if it is difficult.

"We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul - not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives.  It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy."  Colossians 1:11 MSG

"The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.  What can man do to me?"  Hebrews 13:6

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  Deuteronomy 31:8

"For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, 'Do not fear; I will help you.' "  Isaiah 41:13

"Saddling up again" sometimes just means taking one step at a time to get through the day, or get through a situation.  It's not conquering the hard thing or the situation you're facing - it's just hanging in there and persevering.  God has helped me do that over and over again.  I couldn't have made it without His grace and strength.