Yahweh my Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like those of a deer and enables me to walk on mountain heights! Habakkuk 3:19 HCSB
Pawnation reports that a white-tailed deer is the most abundant deer in the United States, though they aren’t found in California, Nevada, Utah, Alaska and Hawaii. Speed is of the essence since the white-tailed deer must be able to outrun large predators. Wolves, coyotes, and mountain lions will give chase to deer, who rely on speed and agility to survive. The white-tailed deer can sprint as fast as 35 miles per hour; however, he can’t maintain the speed for long periods of time. As a bonus, he’s a great jumper, able to clear a 7-foot height from a standing position and up to 10 feet when running. He can bound well too, covering as much as 30 feet in a single leap.
Habakkuk uses the analogy of a deer to express how God helps him to run like a deer. Life brings many difficulties and problems. Just as a deer uses his speed to outrun his enemies, we can depend upon God to always be near to help us defeat our enemy the devil. A deer is surefooted and very agile. We can navigate the challenges of each day when we trust God to direct our path. Habakkuk knew that God could be trusted to give his followers the strength and confidence to face every difficult situation.
Challenge: We are weak but He is strong. God is able to take care of every problem we encounter. Praise Him for helping you run like a deer and walk on mountains.