If life were a bike ride, the sprockets would serve its many seasons. Certain sprockets require strenuous effort, yet when we push hard, we gain distance. Others are uselessly easy when not needed, but they allow us to climb the uphill side of life’s Wolf Creek Passes without giving up. 

Sprockets also reflect the type of ride we’re on, the shape we’re in, and even the traffic (or obstacles) we’re contending with. The daily commute, rushing to a dentist appointment, enjoying a scenic trail, building muscle or lung capacity, or even keeping pace with someone whose bike (or health) is different than our own.  

It’s not uncommon for sprockets to wear out. Overuse, broken teeth, gumming up, or maybe just misalignment with the shifter all take their toll. Worn sprockets work against us. The harder we push, the more they skip. That doesn’t mean it’s time to change our pedaling style. It’s actually time to replace the sprocket.

The key to getting the most from life’s sprockets is understanding which one applies to the moment we’re in. The opportunity sprocket? The recovery sprocket? The endurance sprocket? Or, maybe just the quiet, looping a rope around someone’s handlebar stem and pedaling for both of us sprocket? God blesses all of us with multiple sprockets, and because He does, we’re able to help others. Especially those most affected by what gear we’re in.