Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 31:6-8
Focus Scripture: And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV)
A few months ago I went on vacation to Central America. While I was there, I had the opportunity to hike Pacaya Volcano, an active volcano in Guatemala. I have never experienced anything so mentally and physically difficult in my life.
As we were going through the trail that was filled with volcano ashes, in some areas it became VERY difficult to climb. It was as if you where consistently walking up steep stairs. Imagine working out at the gym on a stair master that’s filled with sand. So every time you take another step, you sink farther in the sand, having to lift your legs higher. As if the incline of the volcano wasn’t enough of a challenge.
Since our guide took this trip at least three times a week, he wasn’t having any problems navigating the journey. He knew every turn, trail and path to take. It wasn’t until we were about two-thirds of the way up that we realized the hike was easier if we stepped in the exact footsteps of our guide. He had already paved the way for us and we just needed to step directly in his footsteps and follow his exact path. Doing this didn’t relieve us of all difficulty, but it did offer some assistance. We didn’t have to stop as often to rest like we had earlier in the hike.
Isn’t this the way we should approach our journey in following Christ? So many times we want to pave our own way and create our own path, not realizing how much more difficult we are making things for ourselves. The word of God is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path according to Psalm119:105. It is important that we use it as a guide on our daily walk with Christ. When we make up in our minds that we will follow in Christ’s footsteps, although our heart my plan our ways, the Lord will establish our steps, Proverbs 16:9.
Prayer: Almighty God, my Shepherd and King. Thank You for holding fast to Your promise of never leaving me or forsaking me but always leading me in the path of righteousness. I admit that sometimes I make things difficult for myself by not following Your leading, please forgive me. Sometimes this journey can get tough, but help me to remember that You go before me, preparing the way. And because of this I don’t have to worry or fear or try to figure it out. All I have to do is follow. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen!
Jennifer says
Wow!! YES!!!! That right there is a ministry and life changing word. Thank you!!
Tiffani says
Glad it ministered to you!
Lisa says
YES. AND AMEN. I agree with Jennifer.
Tiffani says
Im so glad it blessed you!
Styled By OmiOmy says
Amen! I remember this so well. What a hike! But God. Great post and reminder.
Tiffani says
It was something!
Allen says
That’s Awesome! Made me think about when TD Jakes said “it’ll take years if you try to do it your way. God can change your situation instantly if you do it his way!” Great Word!
Tiffani says
Yes so true!
Rachael says
Really great insight! This was a great post! Good story!
Tiffani says
Thanks for stopping by!
Kia says
What a good word! We often don’t rely on our guide or His written manual enough.
Tiffani says
So true, we have to do better!
Tara says
It’s refreshing to know we don’t have to forage our own path. We just look for the signs to follow!
Tiffani says
Right! The path is already set!
Pamela Kuhn says
There’s a promise God gave me when I was a teenager: “I will go before you and make the crooked places straight.” He does that with His Word — it may be the “narrow” way, but we have the Most High King and His Word as a tour guide.
Caroline says
I love this. I love how God speaks while in nature. What a sweet lesson he taught you along the way and I am so glad you shared with us. Thanks Tiffani