Who’s Holding the Reins?
Hi, I’m Joni Eareckson Tada, and when I used to horseback ride, I had a horse who was so unruly, so hard to catch out in the pasture. Once I bridled and saddled him, he was very obedient. It’s like he was a different horse under the restraints. He seemed happy to obey my commands. You know, sometimes I think this wheelchair of mine is like a saddle, with a bit, girth, bridle, and I’m the horse.
Maybe at one time in my life I was unruly and running wild, but knowing what I do now about God? I would much rather have the restraints; I’d much rather be saddled with suffering! Because these restraints remind me who’s in charge; who’s holding the reins. Besides, well-trained horses are the ones who win the ribbons, right? So no matter what kind of hardship you’re saddled with today, don’t despair. You’re in training, and there’s a blue ribbon waiting for you and a master to be obeyed. And that is a wonderful diamond in the dust.
© Joni and Friends
Pressing On: How to Lean on Christ through Suffering
After more than 55 years living with quadriplegia and chronic pain, Joni Eareckson Tada knows what it means to “press on” through suffering. Joni encourages you to join her in living out Philippians 3:14: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
