I believe God shows mercy in our lives in both simple and complex ways. I had this simple experience many years ago that reminded me of His simple, pure mercy. Our family was at Disney World. We were exploring the resort area where we were staying. We came to a pathway that was marked by lodge poles on either side six to eighteen inches high. These poles were different heights and they ran for about 150 feet. My sons all began to climb on these poles and attempt to walk the entire 150-foot path on top of the lodge poles. I remember saying I would pay them one dollar if they could make it the whole way without falling off. My oldest two sons accomplished the feat quickly and easily, but little two-and-a-half-year-old Blake couldn’t do it.

He tried again and again but just kept falling off the poles. He was getting more and more frustrated with every attempt as he kept falling off every few feet. Finally, I said, “Blake, let me help.” This time Blake climbed on the lodge poles and began to walk as I gently held his hand. I didn’t take over for him; I simply gave him some support. This simple guidance was making it possible for Blake to succeed. There were a few times where he lost his balance and I would offer much firmer assistance. With this extra help, Blake eventually walked the entire distance of the lodge poles and reached the destination, which was the end of the path. He was excited about his accomplishment, and in the end was grateful for the extra help.

I believe Heavenly Father operates in a similar fashion. As we choose to walk the pathway of righteousness, we can’t do it alone. We need some help. We need His hand. His tender mercies along the way help us to stay on track and on the right path. He is constantly assisting us as we walk life’s difficult pathway. God reminds us as we walk life’s lodge poles, “Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me” (3 Nephi 9:14). “And thus doth the Lord work with his power in all cases among the children of men, extending the arm of mercy towards them that put their trust in him” (Mosiah 29:20). I have felt His powerful arm lift me up on numerous occasions in my life.