Following the Course

"Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths" (Isaiah 2:3a NIV).

I just received an email with the map for Calvin's next cross country meet. We always look for locations where we can catch a view of him running several times. Often we are able to cheer him on from several points along his course and we try to be near the finish line to watch his last push against time and other racers. The cross country course is often on a golf course where the manicured grounds are perfect for marking paths and providing challenging hills plus attractive scenery.

Our life path is similar to a cross country course. We move along for a while till we come to a sharp turn and double back the same way we came. Then we may come to a new path that takes us through deep valleys where we get muddy and become encumbered by the trials we face. Eventually we tackle the long hills and reach the top where another trail guides us through times of sunshine and fragrant prairies with far reaching views that make our hearts beat with joy.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV).

When we put our trust in God, we have the golf cart driving ahead of us, showing us where the course goes next, giving us room to choose a different direction, but guiding us along the path He has chosen for us - if we keep our focus on Him. We have to keep going; we can't give up. We can choose our own pace but the prize at the end gives us the determination and desire to keep reaching toward the finish line.

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path" (Psalm 119:105 NIV).

May God's word touch you with encouragement today so you can continue on the path He has set before you.