Bend and stretch reach for the stars
There goes Jupiter. Here comes Mars
Bend and stretch reach for the stars
Stand on tippy-toes oh so high

As a pre-schooler, I liked to sing this song from the kids show Romper Room and do the actions with the lady on the television. Who would not want to reach for a star? I know my four-year-old self did, and I know my husband, who is into astrophotography, would? He sets his sights high.

Stretching increases our reach, and if there is something special we desire to get, we need to increase our reach. When Ian goes out shooting night photography, he extends his reach into the universe so that he can obtain amazing photos in dark skies that the naked eye cannot see. Ian uses specific lenses and camera equipment to assist his vision and reaches heavenly heights so others may also enjoy such sights and learn to do likewise.

God wants us to stretch our faith and receive more of what He has for us in Him. Just like Ian is compelled to see more in the night sky and not just be content with what his naked eye can see. Reaching for more enables the God of the universe to do what we might think is impossible. God assists vision so that we can see things as He does and that can enable us to achieve what we never thought may be possible.

If God stretches some part of our lives, it is best to cooperate with Him because He is up to something. He knows that the uncomfortableness of being stretched not only builds faith but increases trust.

Is there a part of your life that God is stretching right now?

How may a time of stretching time increase faith and trust in God?

God knows what challenges are coming our way, so he prepares us to walk through the circumstances and not crumble when things get tough. Who you are under pressure is who you are!

For example, I am going through a stretching time as we seek to transition Justin (our youngest son) into the next stage of his life. God encourages us to increase our reach and aim high for Justin’s future. If he wants to work in a church, why can’t he? What seems impossible in the natural is not impossible for God.

Luke 1:37 says, Jesus looked at them and said, “with man, this is impossible, but all things are possible with God” we may not be able to see the outcome with our naked eye, however when we allow God to assist our vision, we can reach for the stars. Set your goals high to achieve the most in life, conquer difficult things. Allow yourself to stretch, take a risk, aim high, God will do the rest. You can trust in Him!

Blessings, Leisa