The Trail
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.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28 (ESV)
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalm 119:105 (ESV)
The year was 2004. My best friend and I were in our early teens, always looking for adventure. Back then, we’d hop on our bikes and take off—to a basketball court, a friend’s house, the gas station for snacks, or our favorite spot—The Econ.
It wasn’t an actual jungle, but to us, it felt like one. Our best adventures were always there. The hardest part? Getting to it. We had to ride our bikes to a hidden entry point, cut through some backyards, push past trees, and follow a narrow path that led into the heart of our paradise. A small stream ran alongside the trail, leading to a sandy, beach-like area. It was our own little escape from the world.
One night, we set off on the familiar path—completely unprepared. No flashlight. No backup plan. Just excitement.
Then, it happened.
As we walked beside the stream, we heard the LOUDEST splash. Our hearts stopped. Our blood ran cold. We knew it wasn’t a rock or a branch—it was something big. And living in Central Florida, there was only one real possibility—a gator.
We stood frozen for half a second, then bolted. Branches smacked us in the face as we crashed through the woods, shouting at the top of our lungs. When we finally reached our bikes, we didn’t stop pedaling until we were miles away, safe at home.
Looking back, it’s entirely possible that the splash was just a falling branch. But in the moment, our fear was real—even if the danger wasn’t.
Sometimes, life feels like that night at The Econ. We have a plan. We set out on a path. Then, suddenly, things don’t go the way we expected.
But here’s what Jesus reminds us:
His Word is our guide. It may not illuminate the entire path ahead, but it will always light the next step.
Even when things seem to be falling apart, He is working all things together for our good.
If we trust Him fully, He will make our path straight. So if your journey feels twisted and uncertain, you’re in the perfect position for Him to realign it.
If I could leave you with one encouragement today, it would be this: Trust Jesus. No matter where you are or what you’re facing, He is more than able to lead you where you need to be.
Let’s pray:
Jesus, I lift up every person reading this today. Many of us are in places we never expected to be. Our plans have fallen apart. The path hasn’t been what we thought it would. But today, we ask You to take the lead. Let Your Word be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Work all things together for good. We choose to trust You with all our hearts, leaning not on our own understanding. As You lead, we will follow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
