A breeze tickles the leaves of the trees around you as you make your way through the forest. A bird chirps in the distance, a fly buzzes by your ear, and a wall of jagged rocks plunges downward to your left. You must concentrate on the trail, thinking carefully about each step and strategically selecting your path.
Likening life to a hike is not a new analogy, but it sure does paint a picture of trust and determination. At times the route is straightforward; at other times, masked. Sometimes there are multiple options to choose from; other times, choices are limited. Occasionally, the direction is clear; but most times, there’s only enough context to make the next move.
I guess that’s the thrilling and terrifying adventure of life … especially for one who journeys with God.
I’ve always been the investigative type who collects all possible information, assesses all potential options, and then makes the most educated decision based on the resources available. While this might be a rational approach to decision-making, it is not the most feasible method for living. And if I walk by faith, that automatically limits the authority of my logic.
Proverbs 3:5-6 is a well-rehearsed guide for the Christian.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”
Isaiah 55:8-9 assures the believer that God’s ways are far superior.
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
Clearly, my musing, pondering, and planning can only get me so far. My own mind and resolve would land me far from where God’s power and will desire to take me. When I surrender to Him, though, He begins to teach and guide me.
“Make me to know Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths.” – Psalm 25:4
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
I am finding that the luxury of knowing is not often afforded to me. But God has given me a brain to think, a heart to feel, and a body to move. It is my job to seek Him prayerfully and obey Him diligently.
I might not (and in fact, likely won’t) catch vision of the way forward or even make out the final destination … but, in prayer and obedience, I can be confident enough to take the next right step. And then the next one. And on from there.
I may find myself somewhere I never saw coming. I could end up taking the long way around or wind up on a detour. But if all the while I am growing closer to the Lord, then I see great value in taking it one step at a time.
Abby
