Today’s Post By: Rae Lynn DeAngelis
“….in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:6)
The sand in Hilton Head is dense and compact, perfect for riding bikes along the shoreline, so our family decided to take a long bike ride to town square where there were shops, restaurants, and even a family friendly water fountain, ideal for cooling down in the southern heat.
Biking up the beach was a straight shot (the quickest route to our destination), but once we began peddling, resistance from the strong winds kept blowing against us and we were getting tired fast. We peddled with all our might but seemed to move at a snail’s pace. What was supposed to be an enjoyable bike ride quickly turned unpleasant. My lungs reached their full capacity, while my legs felt like limp noodles.
At the rate we were traveling, it would take us all day to reach our destination. Under much duress, we made the impromptu decision to exit the beach using a hotel access ramp and travel along the paved bike path instead. Surely the homes and buildings would shield us from the strong winds that formerly hindered our progress.
It was a good plan; unfortunately, the only way to get to the main bike path was to follow the road back to our hotel. We actually had to backtrack before we could move forward. Talk about frustration! This was quickly becoming a journey to nowhere. The road curved in and out so much that it seemed like forever just to get back to our original starting point. We eventually made it to the town square, but it took a full two hours to get there!
“I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.” (Proverbs 4:11)
Do you ever feel like you’re traveling through life with so much resistance, it’s wearing you down? You keep trying to move forward, but it seems there’s always something working against you. Perhaps you’re tempted to get off the beaten path and take an easier route.
Just because another way appears easier, doesn’t mean it is.
Honestly, we wasted a lot of time backtracking that day. We could have reached our destination much faster, if we had just persevered against the wind. In fact, we later learned that we were more than halfway to our destination when we gave up and changed routes.
If you are at a place where you’re feeling discouraged or ready to give up and take another route, I encourage you to go before the Lord in prayer and ask for His direction. If He makes it clear that you are on the right path, hang in there! God is with you. He will travel ahead to clear your path and provide much needed strength when you grow weary.
“Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path.” (Proverbs 23:19)
Don’t lose hope. You are almost there!
