The Elevator or the Stairs

God started writing this blog last night after reading a friend's status on FB on playing the what if game.

How many times do you opt to take the stairs when you can take the elevator? Both lead up to the same spot, but one is a lot easier than the other. God is not mean, and He allows us choices in life. Sometimes those choices on our journey are to take the stairs or the elevator. It's a choice of something easy compared to something that will build muscle and endurance. It's a choice of something that may tire you out and leave you out of breath, but after time that way becomes easier. The elevator is comfortable and quick like so many choices in life seem to be. We want the easier route. We would rather get to our destination quick and with ease, then to build up the strength it takes to climb the stairs a second time. Doesn't His word say to run the race with endurance?

You may be wondering where I'm headed with this, but bear with me. How many times do we play the what if game with something that has gone on in our lives? We find ourselves on the stairs on our journey and we get tired(worn out so to speak), it gets harder to see the end in sight and to see the muscle and strength we are building. (But we are, everything that happens to us is for a reason and a purpose). Don't go over something God meant for you to walk through. Walking through it is tough, but He has your back.  Is it always going be enjoyable, no I'm afraid not. My only hope is one day, He'll show you how the pieces fit together. I know I ask God for the puzzle box lid a lot(more than once some days), but I am kind of glad He keeps it hidden. If we knew all about how the pieces fit together would we ever take the puzzle out of the box?

 It's been 13 years(see blog below if you want to know story), and I remember the what if game. I remember asking God why more than once, but looking back now I am thankful He let me see how the pieces fit together, how that day has shaped who I am(in a good way thankfully!). Can I let you in on a little secret? Even when you can see how the pieces fit together, when you can see how it has worked for your good, it still hurts on those "days"(I'm talking about birthdays and anniversary days etc.). I would be amiss if I lead you to believe that the pain goes away. God and I were having that conversation and He reminded me about my "Arthur" spots. (Those are the loving spots where I have now developed a little arthritis since the bus wreck). Those spots don't hurt all the time, only in certain seasons(cold weather etc.). The memories are always there, some days they make you smile, some days they hurt. The best part is GOD knows, but He also knows how strong you are.

For every what if or if only, God has a Because I love you. Just like a kid asking why, He doesn't say Because I said so, but Because I love you. I don't know where you are in your journey, you may have found yourself at a stop. You have a choice to take the elevator or the stairs, they both lead to the same point, but along the stairs develops patience, perseverance, and character. Character that can(unfortunately) only be developed by going through something. You can't gain muscle simply by driving past the gym, you have to go in it(and through) it in order to start the training process. So are you going to go up the elevator or start the climb up the stairs? The choice is yours.

Sweet child-
Because I love you I saw what you could not see. Because I love you I saw the choices that lay ahead and whispered which way to go in your ear. Because I love you the light turned green just when you needed it to. Because I love the light turned red when you needed it to as well. (Think about how many times you may avoid a traffic mishap because of a red light). Because I love you I carried you through that fire and brought you to the other side. Because I love you I climbed those stairs with you and smiled as you were able to run down them on your own. Because I love you I took care of all of those little things, just trust me. Because I love you I dried those tears and cried with you. Because I love you I knew that one day you would see how the tears made you into the person you are today. Because I love you, I gave you gifts that only you can open and use. Because I love you I'm always here.  ~God

Have an amazing week and thank you for reading my blogs. I don't know who all does, but He does. Thank you for listening as I share my heart on paper. I hope to one day be able to share in person, but for now this is the avenue He has planned. Remember the reason for the season and who the greatest gift of all really is! Cherish each day and enjoy the journey wherever you are at!
Until next time
~Melissa