Muck and Mire

Have you ever been “stuck in the muck?” Muck seems to be readily available on the farm, and a rainy spell is not necessarily the culprit. This reminds me of an episode years ago when I was trailing a bull home that was causing trouble by getting out of his pasture. I managed to get him to the feedlot and through an open gate I previously prepared. I dismounted my 4-wheeler to wade through the deep muck for the purpose of closing the gate. Lo and behold, there I was in the muck, when the bull turned and decided to show me what he thought of the venture. A lot goes through your mind when a 2000-pound bull is charging and you find yourself stuck in the muck. Obviously, I didn’t have to think very long because the next thing I knew I was flying over the top of the gate. The deep muck on the other side however provided a soft landing.

God Will Help

God used this deep muck and mire to protect me. David found himself in muck as well as he writes in Psalm 40:2 “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” Even though I didn’t end up with my feet on solid ground, I was out of harm’s way. On solid ground. How many times have you been stuck in the muck? The mire of life? Each one of us probably has in one shape or form. I know my faith is easily weakened in and amidst that muck, or despair in my life. It’s during these times when I tend to lose focus that God’s protective hand is right there to help.

On Solid Ground

That is why it is so important when the chips are down to ask God for help through prayer. He knows when we are weak and is waiting to help set us back on solid ground. All we need to do is put our trust in Him and ask for direction and guidance. Yes, it may seem you are still “stuck in the muck”, but when you place your trust in God and find His willing hand, you will also let go of your fear.. I know it has helped me as I reflect back on my mire moments. I then realize how God has used certain encounters to strengthen my faith. Maybe, just maybe, that firm place to stand has led to a greater purpose God has in store for me. God has a purpose for you as well. It may never be clear to what that purpose may be, but God knows. We are told in Psalms 32:8, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” In God’s time, the muck will subside and the path on the solid ground will be known. Dear Lord, help me when I get stuck in the muck and guide me to a firm place to stand. Amen.