He Picked Me Up

He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
and steadied me as I walked along. Psalm 40:2

I love this verse. I love the personal flavor that David gives us when he says, "He lifted me out"... God set MY feet. I needed my dad and he showed up.

Tonight, I was at a picnic with people from work. We had our staff time together and I must say, I enjoy the family like atmosphere. I love the people I work with. I, however, had a special night because God reminded me of His love for me and for all of us.

I was playing with a co-worker's little girl. She is 3 and pretty darn awesome, if I do say so myself. It made me miss my niece. LOL. I digress..

Well, after taking the usual beating that I do at the hands of small children, going through my plethora of random funny voices, and playing imaginary games.. I thought to myself... "man, good times."

I decided to walk over by the pond that my host has set up in the yard. A massive little pond (if that makes sense) with some huge fish. Well here comes the little girl... running... you can guess the rest. Right into the pond. Without panicking, or even having time to hear the cry... I was leaning down, reaching out.... and picked her up and out of the water. I held her and took her to mom's awaiting arms who would later thank me for being so quick to get her daughter.....

As the kid was taken inside to get cleaned up, I sat there and thought to myself... "that's what God is like." Sometimes we get so excited when run after God, then something comes along and "trips" us up. BUT when we fall... ahh... He's right there to pick us up and hold us. He doesn't even give it two thoughts.. He's already leaning down with arms of love to help his kids up.

I realized tonight, after playing with this little princess and the time I've been able to spend with my awesome niece and nephews, man, I long to be a great dad. I want to be what my dad was not able to be to me... a great dad that loves with his whole heart! I want to be that.. so bad! I know that God will help me see that goal to completion because it is so ingrained in my heart and being.

Some, when they read my notes will think to themselves, "man, this guy over spiritualizes wayyyyy too much." I would respond and answer, "man, this guy sees God in so many places and everyday life brings him closer...." would you rather be the person that can meet with God only in four walls every sunday morning or the person that can meet God in every other person, place, and thing that you come in contact with.. knowing that He NEVER leaves you.... just a thought.

Hope all is well and remember, when you stumble, He will pick you up!!

Dan