Thought for Today
Psalm 37:23 Our steps are made firm by the LORD, when he delights in our way; 24 though we stumble, we shall not fall headlong, for the LORD holds us by the hand.
Malachi 2:8 But you have turned aside from the way; you have caused many to stumble by your instruction; you have corrupted the covenant of Levi, says the LORD of hosts,
Luke 17:2 It would be better for you if a millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea than for you to cause one of these little ones to stumble.
John 11:9 Jesus answered, "Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Those who walk during the day do not stumble, because they see the light of this world.
“How many things are there in this world that serve as . . . stumbling stones?” (These Days, Wednesday, April 29, 2026)
Every time Greta or I go to the doctor, one of the first questions we are asked is “Have you fallen lately?” Falling seems to be a major item of concern for those of us “of an age.” Obviously, healthcare providers are not asking about metaphorical falling. They are focused on physical health and the very real and present danger of falling, with the attendant concerns of broken bones, concussions, etc.
Equally obvious, however, is the real and present danger of stumbling and/or falling spiritually. The Bible is primarily focused on the very real and present danger of spiritually stumbling or falling. Such tumbles may not involve broken bones or concussions. But falling from grace can and does impact our place in eternity.
That same devotional author quoted above also notes, “There is no world free of stumbling stones.” (ibid) That is a universal truth equally applicable in both the physical and spiritual world. Those of us “of an age” know that the physical world presents a plethora of opportunities to stumble and tumble. Stairs (going up or going down), uneven floors, area rugs and a world of other items offer us many opportunities to put life and limb at risk.
We also know that the world around us presents an even greater challenge for spiritually stumbling or tumbling. “Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” In addition to pride we are challenged by our nature, “Mark 7:21 For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil intentions come: fornication, theft, murder, 22 adultery, avarice, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, folly.”
There are other, more subtle challenges. When we are overcome with despair, when we lose hope, when we forget our faith, we stumble, tumble and fall. One of the greatest promises in scripture is Jesus’ own, repeated promise, “Matthew 28:20 And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Some days, when we look at the world around us, when we read, listen to or watch the news of this world, we lose hope. Some days we despair. Some days we feel alone and helpless. It is easy to forget that negatives sell more advertising space than positives. “Man Bites Dog!” sells more newspapers than “Dog Bites Man.” Equally, negative political advertising really does carry more influence than positive advertising.
“’My Favorite Things’ is a show tune from the 1959 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The Sound of Music.” (en.wikipedia.org) If you don’t remember the tune, sometime today look it up and read the lyrics. Even if your own list of favorite things differs, reviewing your favorite things is always a positive step.
This time of year, as the earth emerges from its winter slumber, look at the leafing trees and budding flowers. Listen to the songs of the returning birds as they build their nests. Notice the beauty and wonder of the Creation God has provided.
Most importantly, take some time every day to read the Bible. Read about God’s creation and God’s sustaining presence in our world. Read about God’s love for the world. Read about God’s sending Jesus to save the world. Especially read about Jesus’ instruction to the disciples and to us, "Mark 5:36 Do not fear, only believe." Remember Jesus’ promise to always be with us.
Stay safe, be comforted, trust God,
Pastor Ray