The Trail
THE TRAIL
Read Psalm 31:19-24.
“Mom, can we hike that trail?” asked Kim, pointing to a path a few feet from their campsite. “The sign says it’s only a thirty-minute walk.”
“It’s okay with me if your dad doesn’t mind waiting with little Timothy for half an hour,” said Mom.
Dad laughed. “Go!” he ordered. “Timothy is sound asleep, and I have a good book to read.”
Kim and her mother began their hike, walking at a fast pace. Kim talked about school. “Sometimes Jane is friendly and even seems interested in coming to Sunday school,” she said. “But yesterday she and some other kids laughed at me when I prayed before I ate my lunch. It doesn’t seem to do any good to try to witness.”
Soon the trail became more difficult. They climbed hills, pushed away branches, and stumbled over rocks. Kim stopped to rest. “Tired?” asked Mom as she sank down onto a fallen log beside her daughter.
Kim nodded. “This trail seemed easy at first, but now it’s tough! I didn’t realize there were so many hills and valleys. I feel like giving up!”
“You know, Kim, the Christian walk is a little like this,” observed Mom. “There are some rough trails to follow, and we get tired. It’s very tempting at times to stop and give up. Life has a lot of ups and downs—hills and valleys, you might say. But the Bible says we must run with patience.”
“I know you’re right,” said Kim as she got up. “I’m not going to give up in my Christian witness or on this hike. Let’s go!”
HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you weary in your Christian walk? Do kids at school laugh at you because you live for the Lord? Are you tempted to stop and give up? Remember that your Christian walk will have both lows and highs. Don’t give up now!
TO MEMORIZE:
Be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD!
Psalm 31:24
DON’T GIVE UP!
From the book
