FIRM AS A ROCK. Gwenda Steward

Abalone when disturbed in the seabed always clings to a rock.

The Psalmist said, ‘when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the Rock that is higher than I .’ ( Psalm 61;2 )

Those who have visited Uluru, ( Ayre’s rock ) in Central Australia speak of the majesty of this great monolith. The brave and hardy climb its steep path. It stands as an example of God’s creation, a reminder of Him, who is like a rock in character.

Strong, dependable, immoveable, firm, a refuge.

I have seen the mounts of Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau in Switzerland, towering peaks, among the highest in Europe. We approached them from the village of Wilderswill, via the cog railway, which chugged round and round the steep mountain side. Eventually we came out to Schynige Plate to behold the wonder of these three glorious rock peaks, a dazzling sight with the mid-day sun shining sparkle to the snow.

Solid, firm, a sight of beauty. In my heart, I affirmed, ‘He is my Rock’, while as a group

( Australians, Swiss, German, Canadian, Scottish, American, Norwegian) we sang

‘How great Thou art.’

The Psalmist speaks of being overwhelmed. Maybe he tried to cope with disappointment, discouragement, difficulty, or depression. Maybe he experienced situations too deep for human solution. Did he ever say,’ I’m at the end of my tether.’

Overcome!

Out of such a dilemma, the Psalmist wished for deliverance. He cried with deep longing and confidence, ‘O lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.’ Here is One Who not only rescues from such a quandary, but offers that stability and assurance of help and certainty in all times of great need. A present and future promise, which we may appropriate by faith in every situation.

Coping with the needs of a family. Facing responsibilities and duties expected of us. Often I feel quite overwhelmed with longing as I think of our family living away from us, interstate and overseas. Longing with tears to see the grandchildren. Dismayed, yet among the tears, I call to Him, my Rock, the strong and mighty God, full of compassion admirably able to comfort and strengthen. In faith cling to the Rock.

When I feel restless, I know the Lord God, My Rock is:

SAFE

SURE

STRONG

SECURE

SUFFICIENT

SUSTAINING

Sometimes in my life I tremble,

Weak of heart and faint of knees

But the blessed Rock of ages

Never trembles under me.

Read also Psalm 18:31, 46.

If this family article has blessed you, please write: hgsteward@cobweb.com.au