I am not a fan of the reality series, “Survivor.”  To me a real survivor isn’t self-serving, pompous, physically fit or one who is only in it to win.  However this show has grown in popularity and “survived” for the last twenty years.

What’s the draw which lures audiences for almost a quarter of a century?  I suppose having perfect bodies might have something to do with it. Maybe it’s the idea of winning at all costs.  Perhaps we all wish we could do amazing deeds like stay in isolation – away from civilization, prosperity and success for a time – living off the land and making do with what we have.  Oh wait a minute.  We’re doing exactly that right now.

We could really call ourselves survivors during this particular time in history.  What we’re experiencing right now is real reality.  Reality is the every day.  It’s what we become accustomed to.  It’s habitual, sometimes boring, but always interesting.

During times of trying to survive we can become innovative, inventive, creative.  We think about getting through it unscathed.  We begin to look inward for answers and when we discover that doesn’t work, we begin to look elsewhere.

Some may retreat into the depths of their souls – an existence of loneliness and fear.  Others may choose to find solace in a bottle or drugs.  Survivors choose to stay positive, while making the best of what they have available.  Some might find joy in the closeness of family, but eventually too much togetherness becomes an even greater burden.  Some long for the routine that once was normal.  When change occurs, we often run and hide.

There is a way to get through just about any situation in life.  God has created us in His image.  We are creative individuals and have the inner strength to survive if we use His handbook.  The Bible is filled with stories of people just like you and me who have survived the darkest parts of living – murderers, adulterers, thieves, the corrupt, deceivers and those who have become numb to God’s teachings.

Most of the survivors on the television series, meet their goals on their own.  Many fail.  Those who make it are rewarded for their efforts.  In life, we struggle to meet our goals on a daily basis.  When something gets in the way, we can either push through it or retreat into dark places of our own making.  If we trust in the One who made us and knows everything about us, we can count on surviving.  He never leaves us.  He’s our constant companion.  He brings us through even the most difficult of times.

“Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10