Morning Devotional
November  2, 2005
"New Shoes"      
    by Don Emmitte

But you, dear friends, must continue to build your lives on the foundation of your holy faith. And continue to pray as you are directed by the Holy Spirit. Live in such a way that God's love can bless you as you wait for the eternal life that our Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy is going to give you. Show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. There are still others to whom you need to show mercy, but be careful that you aren't contaminated by their sins. And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep you from stumbling, and who will bring you into his glorious presence innocent of sin and with great joy. (Jude 1:20-24 NLT).


I just went to pick up my old boots from the shoe shop. I had them resoled. I am always a little surprised when I bring shoes in for repair that I am asked whether I want new heels also. I would think that new heels would automatically go with the new soles. Of course, I have both put on. Seems silly to just do the soles without the heels. After having them repaired and wearing them for the first day, I found myself getting used to them all over again. They walked differently! It wasn’t a big transition, but enough that I could feel the difference. A few times, I almost stumbled as the new heels would grab more than the old ones. I know I must have looked silly, but it took a little while to readjust my “shuffle.”

 

It reminded me that I have stumbled in more ways than one. Just as I walked unsteadily in new boots, I have also tripped in the spiritual realm. I have allowed fear, difficult circumstances and health issues to cause me to stumble and take my eyes off Jesus. Haven’t you?

 

I like our reading this morning. We are told that Jesus can keep us on our feet, standing tall and bright in His presence, and is able to keep us from stumbling and falling. That’s the key! When we keep our eyes on Him rather than the circumstances in our lives we will be steadied in our walk through life. Here’s the chorus to a familiar song to remind you to look to Jesus:

 

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,

Look full in His wonderful face,

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,

In the light of His Glory and Grace. 1

 

No matter what surprises might lurk in your future; there is nothing that will come as a surprise to Jesus. Follow him and keep your attention riveted to him. He will bring you safely into his “glorious presence!”

 

1.       TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS; Words and Music by Helen H. Lemmel; 1922