This Journey Is NOT a Constant Slope

I don’t want to get too technical and lose the point by bombarding you with math jargon. But as a math specialist, I can’t help it - I love to geek out over math! So naturally, when I saw this photo, I immediately thought of a negative slope.

In math, a negative slope represents something going downward - and that’s exactly what the woman in the silhouette appears to be walking down. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad thing. She’s still moving forward, still progressing toward her expected end.

I like this image because it reminds us that the Christian journey isn’t always a constant slope. The path isn’t perfectly smooth or flat. Along the way, there are inclines and declines - seasons that challenge us and seasons that feel more comfortable. There are also times when we have to stop completely or even take a full detour. But the goal is to keep moving forward.

That can be hard for many women, especially when they feel like they’ve made an unforgivable mistake. But remember - the enemy condemns, and condemnation pushes us away from God. The Holy Spirit convicts, and conviction draws us closer to God through confession, repentance, and a deeper walk with Christ (Romans 8:1; John 16:8).

At times, it may seem like you’re not moving at all. Other times, the climb may feel steep and exhausting. You may stop, stumble, or even wander onto a detour - but through it all, God remains faithful. Our Father isn’t looking for perfection; He’s looking for progress. Philippians 1:6 reminds us, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

So keep walking, even when you’ve made a mistake or feel far from your Heavenly Father. He’s not waiting to punish you - He’s waiting to talk to you. “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8).

The journey may not be a constant slope, but every step - up or down - is leading you closer to His purpose for your life