One Foot In Front Of the Other…

The phrase “putting one foot in front of the other” has a negative ring to it – as if a person were burdened or defeated or is holding on by a thread and is only able to muster one step at a time. Yet, Bill Hybels uses those words to define faithfulness. And you know? I’d have to agree with him.

A measure of faith is given the moment a person believes… Because, let’s face it, it takes a huge amount of faith to believe in Christ and to believe the Bible word for word when you didn’t before. However, the day-to-day living out of this Christian life is another story, and very much requires putting one foot in front of the other.

Paul defines "faith" as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. (Heb 11:1) At first glance, this definition makes no sense at all. How can you have conviction about the existence of something (much less Someone) you cannot see with your eyes or experience with your other senses? And what of hope? That is one mighty big word when faced with the realities of life. Most of us can barely scrape up enough hope that we’ll get through our morning commute without killing or being killed, much less having the assurance that “everything will be OK.” It seems almost impossible for faithfulness to exist when hope is hard to find. Life can be grueling and often messy…

However, when I think about it, “putting one foot in front of the other” is actually a very hopeful statement… one that conjures up a picture of triumph and victory instead of defeat. I see individuals who overcome tremendous obstacles to become amazing human beings; children with disabilities who accomplish so much all the while spreading joy with their constant smiles; our soldiers on the front lines; everyday people who come to the aid of those far less fortunate… the pictures are endless and makes for great “Rocky” stories that lift the hearts of all within earshot.

On a more basic level, I picture individuals who go through each day determined to accomplish something – even if it is to simply get out of bed instead of burying their head under the covers. I picture a person who is working toward a goal – and whether planned or unplanned – each step moves them forward. So really, that statement bursts with action, determination, fortitudinous, ability, courage, perseverance and moving forward!! All these words make up the elements of hope… and hope is the foundation of faith.

Putting one foot in front of the other is a powerful demonstration of faithfulness! So let us keep on walking with our heads held high. And when our ability to be faithful falters, His faithfulness never fails.

"Be strong and brave, and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged, because the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or leave you until all the work for the Lord is finished.” (1 Chronicles 28:20 NCV – slightly paraphrased by me)