Cedar trees can teach a lesson about life. The tips of this evergreen always point straight up toward the heavens. These tips remind us that “up” is the right direction for our weary or searching eyes.
As life events close in, when disappointments darken our lives, when fear consumes us, when pain slips into our world like a robber, we might find ourselves looking back to the “days gone by” or perhaps looking down in discouragement or despair, or out at others in envy.
Jeremiah writes, “Let us lift up our hearts and our hands to God in heaven” (Lamentations 3:41).
David prayed, “To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul,” (Psalm 25:1, NASB) and “I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy” (Psalm 142:1).
Jesus said, “When all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near” (Luke 21:28, NLT).
Looking forward is necessary in order to walk in this world, but true orientation happens with an upward glance to our True North. Only then will we know that His word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Lord, I ask that You be the Lifter of my head and that You open the eyes of my heart. I’ve spent too much time lately looking inward at my faults and inadequacy, or looking ahead at worries that consume me, or looking back at my failures. Lord, I really want to look up and see You and trust that you alone know my future. Help me put my hand in yours as we walk forward hand in hand and to open my heart to hear Your still small voice leading me on the path I am to walk each day I pray.
Pat's Ponderings 
Words to remember as I go through the day and the events of life beg me to look everywhere but up to Jesus my Savior. Thank you!
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