Gospel

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Ladder Safety and Salvation
By Dan Blankenship
© 2007 Dan Blankenship





For many years now I have worked around ladders. I have climbed tall ladders, short ladders, fixed ladders, portable ladders, steel ladders, aluminum ladders, and wooden ladders. And in almost every job I have had where ladders were used I have been required to undergo ladder safety training.

Throughout my years of ladder training and climbing, I have always made a personal association to my faith in the Holy Word and the process of safely ascending a ladder.

Before a man climbs a ladder, he must inspect it for structural integrity. Before a man decides to let his life be guided by Biblical instructions, he must examine it for spiritual integrity. If the ladder is defective or covered in grease, it would be dangerous to climb. Likewise, if the Bible contained misdirection and words of ignorance, a man would not be wise to accept it for instruction concerning his own life. To date, I have not used a defective ladder, physical or spiritual.

Another instruction demanded by ladder safety rules is that a person face the ladder as it is ascended. Keeping her eyes focused on each rung of the ladder as a woman climbs up it ensures a stable grip will not be lost. When a woman applies Biblical teachings to her personal life on a daily basis, the chances of tumbling into utter despair are greatly diminished. God does allow us to experience trials and tribulations, but he never leaves our side through those sufferings. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV) Also see Deuteronomy 31:8, Joshua 1:5, and Hebrews 13:5.

One of the most common mistakes a person makes when using a portable ladder is not remaining in the center of the rails. Leaning to one side or the other can cause the ladder to become unstable and fall. The same holds true in our spiritual lives. When we become too focused on Biblical “dos and don’ts” and ignore the good works God has called us to perform, we become unstable witnesses as we work to bring God’s message of salvation to others. If we lean the other way, spouting forgiveness without mentioning God’s laws for man, we risk leading others into a false faith devoid of integrity-filled instruction.

When we study our Bible, we are keeping our weight evenly distributed between the rails of rescue God wants us to be climbing. When we help others in need, we are not favoring our left or right side as we ascend the rungs of spiritual renewal. It is indeed true; ladder safety and God’s call to reach the lost have a lot in common. So the next time you climb a ladder, think about the concentration and balance involved with such an act. Are you applying as much effort when it comes to your spiritual ascension?

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