The other day I was out taking my morning walk, and for some reason I was quite tired.

It seems that the aches and pains which come with getting a little older can make life a bit more difficult.  Perhaps that was it.

The emotional struggles that we all face at times can wear us down.  It could be that.

Of course, the spiritual development that is a constant part of our growth as a Believer can sometimes stretch us beyond words.  Maybe that was some of it.

Regardless, I was tired.

As I was walking, the road gradually rose before me creating an incline that was more deceptive than one might realize on an initial glance.  Plodding steadily along, I reached the peak of the hill and then began the decent down the long section of the road going down to the highway.

A bit later, walking back up the long hill, it dawned on me; this crazy road is uphill going both ways!  It is a lot like my own spiritual life at times.

Now, I suppose it could be because where we live, our little mountain is one of the higher land points around.  It would only make sense that upon leaving our driveway, heading out to the highway, you would, of necessity, go uphill.  Then coming back in from the highway you again must go uphill.

Thinking about this further, I realized that oftentimes life feels much the same way.  We long to be on the mountaintop, we crave being close to the Lord, filled with joy, and yet, the journey to get there seems uphill from all directions.

•  When we are weary in our physical bodies, the spiritual climb toward joy can be quite exhausting.  I well remember various times in my life when joy seemed only a faint glimmer at the end of the trail.  Yet somehow, by His grace, I’ve always found my way there.

• When we are emotionally exhausted, we often make unwise choices and do things we otherwise would not do.  It is vital to find ways to manage our emotions, or turn them in another direction, thus allowing our heart and mind time to heal.

• When we are spiritually weary and worn out, the climb can be excruciating.  Sometimes it seems it would be easier to give up, to sit at the bottom of the hill; letting others attain the glory that comes with perseverance.

Discouragement over unresolved emotional or spiritual issues can drag us down and make life less enjoyable.  Allowing things of this world to pull us away from our relationship with our heavenly Father will drain us of our energy and joy.  And of course, physical aches and pains do make anything that is negative around us seem to be magnified.

So, as I continue to walk through the hills and valleys in my life; as I constantly seek a deeper relationship with my Saviour.  I will walk these age-old hills of Arkansas with a new perspective.

I will be grateful for the privilege of learning new lessons daily.  If some days the road seems uphill both ways, I will rejoice.  You see, it is in the pain of learning that we grow stronger and more like Him.

^18 “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.  To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”    2 Peter 2:18 (KJV)