Some days I wonder if I'll ever make it. Maybe you do too? There are goals I have, timelines that I've mentally set for myself, and dreams I want to accomplish. When I see those daunting challenges, there are days I am intimidated. Will I ever get there?
My greatest goal is to live with God after my life here on earth. I believe Jesus died on the cross to make that miracle happen. So, above all of my dreams and desires is that one greatest goal - and again, some days I am initimidated. Will I ever get there?
With my failings, my limitations, and my specific and unique personality weaknesses, will my pace be hindered so much that I won't reach that most important goal? Will I ever get there God?
I read a quote that I often think of in moments of anxiety like that. Spiritual reformist and preacher C. H. Spurgeon (1834 - 1892) was quoted as saying "By perserverance, the snail reached the ark".
God's timing was perfect. His patience was perfect. His vision was perfect - even for the slow-paced, small, fragile, weak snail. The snail eventually made it to the ark.
I'm sure the gazelle was there early, the lion arrived proudly, and the birds all made it look easy. But the snail made it before the ark doors closed and the floods began. Perhaps all of the other animals had their heads cranked, positioned to see the shelled creature as it slowly, methodically came up the plank. Perhaps all of the other animals were cheering the snail on as it made its final climb?
What I do know is that God in His perfect timing has kept the ark doors open for me - in my most labored, incremental pace - to make it safely to Him.
I look around at my life and while the circumstances are difficult, I believe in my heart of hearts that I am in the right place and the right time with the right direction. I'm pressing on. I'm on my way home to God and He is patiently waiting for me. He's waiting for you too.
"By perserverance, the snail made it to the ark."
Are YOU coming?
