Day 8 - Consequences For Not Climbing

Two Days Until the Climb Begins

We’re almost there—just two days left before we begin the climb up the Fatherless Mountain! I’m excited, and I hope you are too.

But let me ask you honestly: have you thought about giving up before even starting?

If you have, you’re not alone—I had those same thoughts when I was preparing for my journey. The climb is tough, and the obstacles are real. Because of how overwhelming it can feel, many people choose to put it off—some for years, others forever. And sadly, many never overcome the mountain at all.

When that happens, unresolved issues caused by fatherlessness follow them for the rest of their lives. These issues show up in addiction, broken relationships, anger, trouble with the law, and cycles of pain that continue into the next generation.

I’ve seen it happen to several of my friends. They chose to lie down and give up. Now they’re living with the heavy consequences: jail time, addiction, teen pregnancy, bitterness, and shattered potential.

But that doesn’t have to be your story.

The statistics are sobering, but you don’t have to be one of them. That’s why I’m challenging you—right now—to stay committed to the climb. It won’t be easy, but the consequences of quitting are too great to bear.

CHALLENGE:

There’s an old saying, “Hindsight is 20/20.”

That means once we’ve experienced the results of our decisions, it’s easy to see what we should have done. But by then, the consequences have already arrived.

A great example of this is the prophet Jonah.
God called Jonah to go to Nineveh, but Jonah didn’t want to. He hated the people there and ran the other way instead. Rather than climb the mountain God had placed in front of him, he tried to escape.

But running came with consequences.
God sent a storm, and Jonah ended up being swallowed by a great fish. Imagine what that must’ve been like—dark, cold, and terrifying. It was only after all that that Jonah realized he needed to obey. Once he chose to follow God, Jonah’s life was used to make a huge impact.

Don’t wait until you’re in the belly of your own “great fish” to start obeying God.

Ephesians 5:14–17 tells us to redeem the time—to use the opportunities God gives us and to walk in His will. Right now, His will for you is to face this fatherless mountain and climb it with His help.

ACTION STEP:
Make a list of the top 5 things you know God wants you to do right now.
Examples might include:

• Respecting your mom or guardian
• Climbing this mountain with courage
• Living a pure life
• Giving your best in school
• Quitting a bad habit
• Telling a friend about Jesus

Keep this list in a place where you’ll see it often.

SUGGESTED PRAYER:
Dear Lord, I know I cannot climb this mountain on my own. Please give me the strength, courage, and wisdom to face the journey ahead. Help me follow Your will and trust that You’ll be with me every step of the way. Amen.