Look Up!

I have the wonderful blessing of living near the Rocky Mountains. In fact, if I walk over to one of the windows in our office, I can see Pikes Peak. It’s a magnificent site, rising to over 14,000 feet in elevation. Interestingly, America’s Mountain, as it’s often referred to, and the Grand Canyon both have a base of around 6,000. The mountain rises approximately 8,000 feet from its base while the canyon descends over 6,000 to its deepest point. As I’m sure you can imagine, it’s easier to make your way to the bottom of a canyon than to climb to the top of a mountain. The same reality applies in life.

The author of Psalm 121 writes, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2 ESV). The psalmist goes on to recount the promises of God. He reminds us that our Heavenly Father will not let our feet stumble. He watches over us while we sleep, when we are helpless and unaware of danger. He watches over nations, but he condescends to watch over us individually. He guards us when it’s daytime, and we can see the enemy approaching. He also protects us at night when we may be completely unaware of danger.

It's crucial that we keep our heads up. I’m not referring to the human encouragement to keep your chin up. I’m referring to where we set our attention. When challenges arise, it’s very easy for us to focus on them. This natural occurrence is the equivalent of making our way down to the bottom of a canyon. Focusing on our situation will lead us downward spiritually and emotionally. We can’t let this happen.

Are you facing challenges today? If so, you’re either at the base of a mountain or on the rim of a canyon. Choose to look up instead of gazing down. Your help comes from on high. 

Remember, if you are in Christ, the Father has seated you next to your Savior in heavenly places. The perspective from there is much better, and the one “who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4). The Lord of heaven and earth is with you. Find rest in this truth today.

^{Mark Renfroe and his wife, Amy, have been involved in field missions work for 30 years. Mark served as the area director for Assemblies of God World Missions and currently serves as the chief missions officer for World Challenge.}