Pony Hunting

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Personally, I have never been into horses. They are powerful animals, sleek and beautiful—but to me, they take up way too much care, money, and space. However, this message is what intrigued me. Lori Hatcher (All God’s Creatures) learned a life-lesson not easily forgotten. See what you think.

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If you hike the rocky balds of Wilburn Ridge, you won’t hike alone. Tucked among the evergreens and rhododendrons live wild ponies—specifically bred horses named Virginia Highlanders. Small in stature and suited for mountainous terrain of the area, these ponies have flourished on the heights of Grayson Highlands State Park since the 1950’s.

My husband and I went searching for the elusive ponies, hoping to catch a glimpse of the beautiful animals.

We hiked. And we hiked. And we hiked. The section of the Appalachian Trail got steeper until we were stepping from rock to rock with barely a path in sight. And still no ponies.

Before long, we were struggling. Our legs protested, and dark clouds loomed on the horizon. Reluctantly and with great disappointment, we turned and headed down.

Only to find the ponies grazing at the bottom of the ridge.

Painted ponies, black ponies, black-and-white ponies, a pair of week-old foals, and Fabio, a gray dappled stallion with a long blond mane. There they were munching grass as if they’d been waiting for us.

I commented later how kind God was to us that day. We didn’t find the ponies where we’d hoped, but He sent them to us another way.

It’s not the first time something like this has happened. I’ve often grown weary in parenting, marriage, ministry, and work. When I don’t see the results I’d hoped for, I begin to second-guess my approach. I wonder if my efforts matter at all. Then He rewards me in an unexpected way. He encourages me not to lose heart by sending a heavenly reminder of His love—just when I need it the most.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. –James 1:17 (NIV)

Father God, thank You for always providing. Help us never to give up on You because You never give up on us. Please teach us to wait on Your perfect timing. AMEN.