# Footsteps: Recognizing God's Presence in Our Highs and Lows
*2014-12-28*

> Bill reflects on the classic “Footprints in the Sand” story, reminding listeners that God’s love is present even when we feel alone in our trials.

## The Promise of the Father’s Care

In this episode I wanted to meditate on the Father’s loving care for us. God is with us in the high points of our lives—when we are healthy, successful, and joyful—and also in the low points—when we are sick, depressed, or facing difficulties at work, in friendships, or in marriage. No matter the circumstance, He never abandons us.

## The Dream of the Footprints

The story begins with a man who has a dream. He sees himself walking along a beach with the Lord, and across the sky a series of scenes from his life flash before him. In each scene he notices two sets of footprints in the sand—one belonging to him, the other to the Lord.

## The Moment of Doubt

When the final scene of his life appears, he looks back at the footprints and sees that, at several points—especially during the lowest and saddest times—there is only one set of footprints. Distressed, he asks the Lord, “You promised that once I decided to follow you, you would walk with me all the way. Yet in my most troubling moments I see only one set of footprints. Have you left me?”

## The Lord’s Answer

The Lord replies, “My son, my precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During the times of your trials and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I was carrying you.”

## Living the Assurance

May we always, through prayer, remember that God is with us—even when we feel alone. Trust that in our darkest valleys He is not absent but bearing us.

*When we see only one set of footprints, it means the Lord is carrying us.*