"Crossing Busy Streets"

In Psalms 46:1 David writes, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

The following image will be familiar to you: a mother clutching the hand of her small child as both cross a busy street. Years later, that same mother will counsel an adolescent daughter or son, “Be sure to look both ways before crossing the street.” By a strong hand at first, then by loving counsel, we are gradually taught how to prevent accidents.

However, despite our best efforts to be alert and to practice safe lifestyles, accidents will happen. Fortunately, emergency first aid for injuries and extended medical care offers hope and reassurance for our healthy recovery.

Psalm 37 expresses appreciation for God’s parental concern for our safety and survival in a world filled with confusing voices and dangers. In Psalms 37:23-25 David writes, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.” He promises to guide our footsteps. He will lift us to our feet when we stumble. We will never walk alone, and God’s words of caution will keep talking to our hearts through the Bible. If we stay in tune with God and His word, he will be there as an ever present help. However, if we neglect His teaching, we are on our own.

The culture in which we live pulls us in many directions. The world is screaming at us so loudly that many just go the way the wind blows. Our culture would have us believe that it is alright to do and live any way we see fit, as long as we do not interfere with others, but we should always ask ourselves the question, “Am I seeking first God’s kingdom and His righteousness.

God is always ready to provide divine first aid where and when we hurt. He knows and cares about the dangers we face, and we trust his instructions for how to cross the busy and troubling streets of this life.