Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

Ephesians 5:17

Have you ever watched a toddler learn how to climb? It can be terrifying. Their wobbly little legs and arms are figuring out how to maneuver themselves to lift and pull. They put their foot in the wrong spot and they tumble down. Sometimes it brings tears but often it forms determination as they keep trying, especially if there is something just within their reach.

As a parent, it is important to let them fall.

Not let them get hurt, but let their bodies develop and try new things in a safe environment. This might mean putting down carpet or foam pads, it might mean blocking off stairs or areas that are simply beyond the child’s capabilities. It also might mean sitting with them and coaching them through it so they learn how to climb and catch themselves so they don’t hurt themselves.

It also means telling them “no” when it is no longer safe.

Isn’t this so like our Heavenly Father? How many times have we stumbled in our Christian lives, perhaps falling and skinning our knees? Sometimes we turn around and wonder where God is. How could he let us slip like that?

The thing is, much like parents, God doesn’t want us to get hurt. He wants us to try things on our own, with his guidance. If we are climbing the mountains that God wants us to climb, if we fall, he is right there ready to guide us through it.

But we have to be climbing God’s mountains, not our own.

Like a toddler, given the chance to climb with supervision, they will look back to see if the parents are watching. If they are smiling and encouraging, the child continues. If they are shaking their heads no, the child hesitates (but often keeps trying!)

As Christians, we need to be aware of God’s head shaking. Even babies understand the word no (although they pretend like they don’t). God will give us the same direction and we need to be ready to hear it.

Because some mountains are not ours to climb.

God wants to help us up the mountains. He wants to be ready to catch us or pick us up if need be. He wants to give us strength and endurance to finish the climb. But only if it is the climb he wants us to finish.

Not every mountain, no matter how good or profitable or Christian-like is ours to climb. If it is not God approved it will be fruitless.

So take time to consider your mountain. Are you climbing where you should be? Have you checked in with God? Read your bible? Maybe you’re on the right track but not the right mountain. Ask for God’s direction and strength to take on his challenges, not your own. Then tackle the seemingly impossible and be amazed by God’s power!