Out on a Limb

“If the Lord delights in a man’s way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” Psalm 37:23,24 NIV 1984 Edition

This is a special month for me. It marks 17 years since we moved to South Africa to pioneer yet once again! I have to admit that I was filled with some fear and trepidation to be starting over at 58 and 61 years of age. It was just the two of us, no team yet, and very little financial support. I wondered if we were a little bit crazy—but it’s not the first time I’ve wondered that in our unusual life of ministry.

The 17 years have flown by! They’ve been filled with some miracles, lots of wonderful people, daily provision—and some very hard things too. I often refer to it as a roller coaster. The last 9+ years have been especially challenging with Floyd’s illness, my cancer battle, some difficult ministry situations, and Floyd going to be with Jesus after years of suffering. On the other side of the world, several family members have gone through very difficult things.

And yet, as I look back, my heart is filled with gratitude at God’s goodness. The hard things are still there in my memory, but they are overshadowed in light of God’s goodness and faithfulness! He has been so very good to me—day by day, hour by hour! I couldn’t have made it without Him.

We had many promises from the Lord in coming here. There were some prophetic words about what God had planned. I’ve often wondered if the enemy hasn’t been trying to destroy what God had ordained. The enemy won’t win—all he can do is slow things down a bit. God will be victorious. I still cling to those words and promises!

I’ve been thinking about an illustration Floyd used in preaching. There are times when God stretches us and has us go “out on a limb” with Him. It can be scary. Things happen and we can feel the limb shaking. We look down and the ground seems further and further away. We’re tempted to run back to the safety of the tree instead of being out on that limb. We can see the enemy trying to cut off the limb so we’ll fall. But if we stay put, trusting the Lord, and obeying His direction, He will keep us safe and the tree will fall on the enemy! It was always such a powerful visual image when Floyd spoke that illustration.

At heart, I’m not a risk taker. But I am willing to obey the Lord in challenges He brings my way. I’m willing to step out of my comfort zone in obedience. I’ve felt out on a limb quite a few times in these past 17 years. But I haven’t fallen. God has kept me safe on the limb, holding my hand, and taking care of me! Where God has called me, being on that limb is the safest place to be!

Seventeen is one of my favorite numbers, so I’m celebrating my 17 years here! It’s a miracle on several levels that I’m here. My heart is filled with gratefulness and worship. I am blessed!

Lord, when we are out on a limb, help us remember that You are holding us up! We trust You, and we will obey Your direction. Amen.