Eli, my 9 month old son, began crawling today. You can click this link to see the video.

http://joshjr.blogspot.com/2010/02/we-have-crawling-baby.html

My oldest, JJ, never crawled, so I never thought much about crawling.  But today when Eli took off, I was reminded of that good ol’ sound foundational advice that says ‘you gotta learn to crawl before you learn to walk’. 

Following Jesus is so much like that.  As a pastor and leader in our church, I never want to lead people into thinking that beginning to follow Jesus is like taking off and running like a skilled athlete. Its not. At times, it is hard and sad and lonely and trying and discouraging. Jesus is there with you in those times. And it is unquestionably worth it. 
Following Jesus at times is like crawling, more than it is like walking. Especially early in the life of the believer. 

So if you are new to following Christ, or if you are just at one of those tough times, take heart and be strengthened because ‘you gotta learn to crawl before you can learn to walk.’  By God’s grace you will soon be walking. Hope fully and completely in God, He is teaching you to walk.