Faith That Outlives You

Last updated on: September 14, 2026 at 3:25 pm by Michele Howe

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Faith That Outlives You 2026-09-14T15:25:13-05:00 Michele Howe

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Leave A Legacy That Outlives You

I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip – he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber or sleep. The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121

I used to think that God’s gifts were on shelves – one above another – and the taller we grow, the easier we can reach them. Now I find that God’s gifts are on shelves – and the lower we stoop, the more we get.

F.B. Meyer

I sat alongside many other dear folks from my church fellowship and we listened intently to the close family members of a recently deceased gentleman share stories from his long and fruitful life. As this beloved Christian man’s youngest sister stood to talk, she regaled us with both comical and poignant retellings about her well-loved oldest brother. One story followed another until I formed a clear and precise picture of this man’s early family life as a boy growing up in a Christian home.

Leave A Faith That Outlives You

From early on, this elderly gentleman’s father would read Psalm 121 before each and every family trip or vacation. He would sit his family down at the table and he would read word for word the entire psalm before the family embarked on any trip. That simple habit of committing their traveling to the Lord before they stepped out the door became a lifelong habit for the entire family and was passed down to the next generation.

As we listened to this deeply meaningful reminiscence it was apparent that everyone felt the deeper meaning of this simple habit adopted by one and all which was passed down from generation to generation. It was obvious that as they listened to lyrical words of Psalm 121, this family quietly worshipped God and thanked him for his present and perfect provision no matter where their foot stepped. Each and every one worshipped the Lord as they gave their silent thanks for his grace and goodness so abundantly apparent as they traveled through life. Truly, as they humbly committed their next steps to him, they worshipped. As they gave thanks, they worshipped.

Our Lives Will Always Leave Some Type Of Imprint

Our mutual friend’s passing into the presence of Jesus was necessarily bittersweet. Yes, he will most assuredly be missed. And yes, we all rejoice because we know he is with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Absent from the body. Present with the Lord. What a legacy of faith, hope, and love he left for those who follow behind him. May we all travel as this man of faith did.

As we journey through life and experience the ups and downs, the joys and sorrows; the happy and the sad; we too can emulate this dear man’s example by committing our way to Jesus with every step we take. The more we immerse ourselves in scripture and allow its powerful truths to penetrate our hearts and minds, we become worshippers of the Most High.

God’s Sovereign Rule Safeguards Our Steps

No matter where our feet step, we can be confident of God’s abiding presence; guidance; and protection. As this psalm reminds us, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” What more practical way is there to begin and end our journey through this life than by humbling ourselves and acknowledging God’s sovereignty and careful rule over all of life?

As we become dedicated students through the careful study of his word and by obedience to his commands, we become true worshippers of his. The longer we walk with Jesus and keep in step with the Spirit, we learn his ways and we continually discover that his glory and goodness cover us from all harm.

We Are Held Secure In God’s Faithful Grip

Sure, we will face untold number of challenges; hardships; and grievous circumstances in this sin-ridden world, but we are eternally secure in the faithful grip of our Lord. Come what may, we must worship our god and Father and give thanks for amazing eternal truth, “The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”

Take-away Action Thought

When I arise in the morning, I will give thanks for God’s sovereign protection and presence in my life. During the day, I will give thanks to God’s for his careful administration so evident in my daily life. At the close of the day, I will worship God and give thanks for watching over my coming and going both now and forevermore.

My Heart’s Cry to You, O Lord

Father, this life is a journey that sometimes takes me places I’d rather not go. I often feel as though I’m not up to the challenge before me. My steps falter, my strength wanes, and even my faith seems inadequate for the tasks before me. Please help me to remember to start my day off right by talking to you first thing in the morning and to continue conversing with you all throughout the day. Help me to remember your countless faithfulness toward me. Remind me of your present loving care. And bolster my spirit to face tomorrow fully confident in your promised supply of grace and strength. I worship you. I thank you. I love you. Amen.

Practicing Grace and Gratitude

Grace and gratitude from God – The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. With journal in hand, I’ll reflect upon God’s protection and provision for me this week. I’ll make sure to write down all the pertinent details so that in the coming days and months, when I am tempted to doubt in God’s perfect provision, these accounts will remind me of his faithful love and care for me.
Grace and gratitude in me – I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Each morning this week, I’ll spend time thanking the Lord in advance for all the promised help will give me as needs arise. I’ll write this verse down and carry it with me to remind me of his promise to help me no matter what, no matter when, no matter how.
Grace and gratitude in life – He will not let your foot slip – he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber or sleep. The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. This week I’ll be on the lookout to bring encouragement to others who are struggling to see how God has faithfully met their needs. I will gently remind them of his faithfulness and loving care toward them and then look for ways to be Jesus’ hands and feet of service toward them. In all that I say or do, I want my life to be an act of worship to God.

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About Michele Howe

Michele Howe is the author of 31 books for women, children, and families and has published over 3000 articles, reviews, and curricula. Her newest books, Fight for Joy and Brave Faith for Hard Things are now available through CLC Publications and at online bookstores. You can read more about the author here.

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