“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Do you remember The Little Engine That Could?
I read that book to my kids, and it was one of my favorites as a child.
A train loaded with presents was on its way to the valley-town where children were waiting excitedly. The cargo cars were moving along fine until suddenly the engine broke down at the foot of a steep hill.
The toys on board were very upset, so the clown went out in search of another train to help out. Clowny was met with attitudes and excuses as he faced those who were willing, but not able; or worse–able, but not willing.
See if any of these types sound familiar:
- The Shiny Train huffed, “No way,” and looked down her steam-powered whistle in disgust. This put-together, bougie gal doesn’t want to be seen helping someone who is always in one mess or another. She’s too special for that.
- The Big Train announced, “My cargo is very expensive, and I’m on a tight schedule.” Boss-chick thinks her needs and responsibilities are more important than anyone else’s.
- The Old Rusty Engine hangs her head, “I’d love to help out. I really would, but my wheels have been bothering me, and I threw my tension spring out last week.” Feeling like her best years are behind her, she’s lost her sense of usefulness.
Finally, the clown turned to the runt of the crew. The Little Blue Engine knew her limitations, but she was also aware of the need.
She thought of the children and accepted the challenge of pulling the broken train up the hill by repeating those four little words:
I think I can.
I think I can.
I think I can.
What the Little Engine lacked in experience and might, she made up for in willingness and willpower.
Do you have that same determination? The drive to push past your predicament?
You and I are equipped to take on our mountains, and help others climb theirs by declaring these four little words—
God is my strength.
God is my strength.
God is my strength.
Listen, you can judge and make excuses, or you can let Christ’s love for you fuel your compassion for others. You can choose to speak defeat into each situation even before you start, or you’ll KNOW you can overcome because Christ’s victory on the cross is
your victory!
