Roller Coasters 

“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;”
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (KJV)

Do you like roller coaster rides? I don’t. I can’t see any pleasure in scaring myself silly! I don’t want to do ‘corkscrews’, ‘loop-the-loops’ or plunge into dark holes and the unknown. I don’t like the feeling of not being in control. I prefer more sedate rides such as the big wheel and games of skill, not that I’m any good at getting a hoop over the prizes!

However, God seems to think I would benefit from a roller coaster ride – He called it LIFE!

Oh yes! There are beautiful views to be had from the heights of this abundant life, but it also includes the less pleasant experiences. I really don’t enjoy the spinning out of control, or the sudden drops into apparent oblivion even with Jesus having done all the safety checks and holding my hand while He sits in the seat beside me!

But still, God knows what He’s doing (building our faith if nothing else), so I will continue to trust Him through this roller coaster ride called life.

A nursery rhyme came to mind: The Grand Old Duke of York:
“When they were up they were up” (and that’s when I must remember to praise and thank God for the wonderful views from up there.)
“And when they were down they were down” (which is when I must remember to draw closer to Jesus sat next to me, trusting that God knows what He’s doing.)
“And when they were only half way up they were neither up nor down” (which is a time for catching my breath but not dozing off, as I still need to walk closely with my God daily.)

Prayer
Thank you, Father, for the life You gave us and also thank you that You are in control so we have nothing to fear. Please help us to enjoy the ride, knowing You don’t, and won’t, allow anything we can’t bear and which You won’t use. Especially thank you for Jesus sitting with us, firmly holding our hand.
Amen

Study by Ruth Edwards

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About the Author:
Ruth Edwards is actively involved in her Worldwide Church of God Bristol congregation, including editing Links, a church magazine for the congregations of the South West and South Wales area.

Local Congregation:
Worldwide Church of God Bristol
Emmersons Green Village Hall
Emmerson Way
EMMERSONS GREEN
South Gloucestershire
BS16 7AP

Meeting Time:
Saturday 11:30am

Local Congregational Contact:
Allan Frankcom
Email:  jf007d9991@blueyonder.co.uk