Do you know of something that has withstood the test of time? What keeps it going and what clues tell you the story of its longevity? Is it sheer strength, quality of craftsmanship or its inner will and workings? These questions filled my mind as I reflected on strength this week. A week where the common thread leaned toward weakness rather than what brings strength. A walk this week led me to a clue that turned me in a different direction and changed my perspective.
An old, weathered bridge resides off to the side of the main road I travel each day as I leave my neighborhood. I rarely notice it as I drive in and out of my community. As I was walking the other day, the bridge crossed my line of vision. I snapped a few pictures and went on my way. This morning, the snapshot came to my mind as I was reflecting on strength. What allows this bridge to stand majestically after so many years? Where are the clues that tell the story of strength and longevity?
There is a name etched on the side of the bridge. It has faded over time, but one that could lead us to the story of the bridge and its beginning. Hidden in the cracks and crevices are treasures not only of the untold stories, but the answers to the questions of how it survived so long. One bridge–many stories–a testament to strength.
I may never know the history of this bridge, but when I look at it through my questioning eyes, I see strength, beauty and a willingness to survive. Maybe the stories are not as important as knowing that there is something inside of each of us that portrays the same qualities as the bridge. Somehow we withstand the test of time when we surrender our story to the One who wrote it. We become strong on the days we only feel weakness because we submit our brokenness to God in humility knowing without Him we remain shattered pieces needing to be put back together again. It is in our brokenness that we find strength.
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This week I will remember from whom I get my strength. I will trust that God will continue to write my story and I will let Him turn the pages when He is ready. We can:
Rejoice in the provision of the Lord.
Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Look to the Lord and his strength;
seek his face always. 1 Chronicles 16:10-11
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:7
Know that God provides strength even in our weakness.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want and I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:12-13
Hold onto the truth that God is faithful
But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Sabbath blessings,
I love the photos of the bridge and how it has withstood the test of time, Mary. If it could talk, can you imagine what stories it could tell?! Thank you for this encouraging message and Scripture Truths. We always want to hurry up the Author of our stories, don’t we? It touched my heart what you write about allowing Him to turn the pages in His time. We so need His grace, don’t we? Love and hugs to you!
The bridge is a little gem in a neighborhood that is relatively new. I’m glad God brought it to my attention and now I have a permanent reminder of where my strength comes from – God! May we embrace God’s grace and timing as our own knowing that His story for us is beautiful.
Hi Mary! Isn’t it funny that something you really didn’t take notice of in the past, is such a powerful message-giver now? God really knows when and how to use the things around us to teach, and you heard his message of strength loud and clear.
I bet now you have a different experience of driving past/over that bridge. It will be a great reminder of how your strength is supported by the Lord’s. A powerful and constant reminder too!
Blessings,
Ceil
It is amazing that God puts things in our path for such a time as this. You are right in saying that when I drive out of my community I will see that bridge and know God’s strength. I pray you are granted some powerful reminders of your own this week.
THIS: “Somehow we withstand the test of time when we surrender our story to the One who wrote it.” Your post reminds me so much of Brene Brown and her work on vulnerability. She says, “The bravest thing you’ll ever do is tell your story.”
I know you love Brene Brown. I have not read her work but love any of the quotes I see from her. I pray we all continue to bravely share our stories.
Beautiful and timely encouragement for me today, friend. Blessings on your Sabbath!
Thank you for spending a moment here June! I am praying for you and hope you are doing well.
Beautiful post and much needed Bible verses for my heart! <3
I’m so glad! I hope your Sunday was filled with beautiful God moments.
Perfect post for this morning of waking up with a back which has decided it’s not ready to start the day: Ibuprofen and the strength and protection of our faithful God!
I understand having back issues so I imagine that waking up and feeling strong was not your first reaction. God is faithful to telling us and showing us we have all the strength we need in Him. Thank you for taking time to stop by.
Mary,
As I read your post, I kept hearing the message that strength comes in surrender. When we are willing to admit that we are weak, then He can be and will be our strength. Loved the scripture you highlighted this am.
Sunday blessings,
Bev xx
Surrender is a hard word for em to wrap my brain around. I think I am letting go and find myself continuing to hold on even if just a little. Last week I felt that weak wanted to overtake me but God knew I needed to be reminded I was strong. Sometimes it takes a bridge or another small reminder to show us the provision of God. He is everything we need and as soon as I let go of the notion I was weak, God filled that space with His strength.
Thank you for the beautiful pictures and story. And thank you for the wonderful Scriptures that fit so well. It’s so good to be reminded of HIS strength being sufficient. The picture of the bridge made me think of Jesus being our Cornerstone, so solid for us! Blessings to you!
Isn’t God so amazingly good? He shows us strength even if it’s in the picture of a bridge and reminds us that He has an endless amount. Jesus is our cornerstone and the rock of our foundation. Blessed as always when you stop by Bettie!