Do you recognize God’s footsteps beside you as you walk through your days?
Yesterday morning my husband and I both put on our running shoes and stepped out for a little exercise at the start of a beautiful September day. I began my run/walk (emphasis on walk) a few minutes before he did, but before long I heard his gait approaching from behind (he actually runs the whole time). I did not have to turn around to check; I recognized his footsteps.
One night last week I heard a key open our front door followed by the unmistakable sound of our grandson’s energetic footsteps tapping two for one with our daughter’s heeled clicks on the hallway tiles. I wondered, in a semi-conscious state, what they were doing in our house in the middle of the night, until I realized that I had been dreaming. Even in my dream, I recognized their footsteps.
Our two sons have equally identifiable footsteps. For example, our youngest never, and I mean never, goes up or down stairs at a normal pace. He vaults up the stairs two or three steps at a time, and his descent sounds like a controlled stumble. This is especially tricky while carrying a full cup of coffee.
As my husband ran past me this morning, I thought about how comforting it is to hear familiar footsteps whether in a dream, while shaking my head over another spot of coffee on the carpet, or out for a morning run.
I find the same comfort in recognizing the footsteps of God always nearby; leading, protecting, and encouraging as I walk with Him.
God walked with Adam and Eve in the garden; he led the steps of the infant nation of Israel through the desert; he walked with his people through victory, defeat, prosperity and exile; and Jesus walked to Calvary carrying a cross.
He did it all so that we can walk with him today and forever.
Yesterday, I “heard” God’s familiar footsteps during my day in the form of several companionable and encouraging phone calls from friends with whom I have the pleasure of walking through this season of life. We spoke words of encouragement, affirmation and prayer for each other. It felt like Jesus and I were taking a walk with mutual friends.
How do you recognize the footsteps of God in and around your life?
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear not evil, for you are with me…” Psalm 23:1-4
Connecting Dots...to God 
This is just excellent, Judy. It gives a sense of what true intimacy with others and the Lord is like, through the illustration of the sound of recognizable footsteps. To dream of such a happy thing as you did, as hearing the well-known steps of your grandson and daughter, is a gift.
When I’m writing something that’s in His will for me, I sense His presence in a feeling of joy. If I’m troubled, He speaks quietly to me, something short and seemingly simple.
Bless you!
Maria
I’m going now, to put a temp link to this post on my front page.
Thank you so much Maria.
Love this!
Judy,
This is a wonderful picture of life with the Lord. Thanks so much.
Ben
I LOVE this, Judy!! I’ll just report on my experience with Him yesterday: I was having a hard day (see? I told you I’m not really “Party Caddo” 24/7)–tired, irritated about some issues where I live, and was on the verge of a brief crying jag at my computer, no less! I “Felt” God come behind me and put His hands on my shoulder, like the loving Husband He is to me–and say, “come, let’s take a break”. And then He gave me a wonderful poem to write–I’m not kidding. So, I didn’t hear His footsteps exactly–but it’s a very small apartment, and He steps so lightly! God bless you–have a great weekend! love, sis Caddo
I completely understand what you are saying, Caddo. God’s light footsteps in our lives are so personal, so perfect, so natural and gentle that we don’t always notice them. I love the picture you painted of you and God taking a little break. And I’ll head directly to your blog – did you share the poem he gave you? May you and your Savior step lively this weekend, Caddo! Bless you! Judy
Oh I should have told you–the poem will likely not post for a few days, maybe next Sunday. You’re so nice to be interested in it–the title is “A Handful of Rain”! (By the way, He and I don’t always step lively–we may be in slo-mo, and just “hang out”!!)
Ok – I’ll watch for it! I’ll bet you’re stepping lively in your heart:)
Pretty much!!
For me, I’ve always wanted to feel His presence upon me everyday. Someone might ask, “How do you do that?” I just ask Him. He isn’t bashful and loves to touch us.
Like Moses, if God’s presence (or footsteps) is not going with me, I’ll stay home.
“I just ask Him.” How often I forget to do that! I actually did ask Him yesterday, which I confess I do not do every day, and as I looked back on the day I clearly saw and felt His presence. Thanks for the reminder to “just ask!” Enjoy your weekend, Larry!