"Grip"

How is it that old cowboy,

Has a stronger, better grip,

On things that really matter,

‘Bout a God-relationship.

Could it be ‘cause of the many years,

He spent astride a horse,

Out there with creation,

And listening of course.

Or maybe cause he’s fallen,

So many times before,

And not just from his pony,

But on some old barroom floor.

He’s needed and he’s given,

Grace when no one cared,

He’s been a friend who’s loyal,

When asked he always shared.

So maybe God’s great mercy,

Helped him see the light,

And never be judgmental,

Toward others in the fight.

And bottom line he’s humble,

And that’s how he gets grace,

To see the way more clearly,

And strength to run the race.

Doesn’t think about it,

Won’t take credit, really won’t,

Just prays and praises Jesus,

Says when in doubt just don’t,

Expect him to just go along,

When the devil makes his run,

He sees through all that lying,

And promises to be fun.

You might not find a preacher,

Or one who’ll stick with you,

But count on this old cowboy,

To finally be true.

A friend that’s always with you,

And will be to the end,

Proud he is to know you,

And be called your friend.

“So take a new grip with your tired hands…” (Heb. 12:12, NLT)

Sometimes we need to step back and consider where our time is being spent. God disciplines us so that we can be made stronger, and get a firmer grip on what matters most. If we don’t, the tendency is to gradually lose our sensitivity to what the Spirit is saying. Take a new grip and straighten your weak knees. Somebody is coming along behind you looking for the way. We can help them, but only if we intentionally get a stronger grip by the grace of God.

Lord, help us get a stronger grip on everything that matters, in Jesus’ name.

Photography by Claire Porter, claireporterphotography.com. Used by permission. Thanks, Claire, and God bless you.