I have a friend who loves to hike mountain peaks. I live vicariously through her social media posts as she shares each adventure. Through this I’ve learned that the only thing consistent in the hikes is that there is a starting point and a peak at the end. Each journey between the starting point and the peak is different. Sometimes there are rocks, and the path is dangerous and difficult. Other times, it is cold and snowy. Then there are the times when the weather and the path are perfect. However, the path is not the only thing involved in the hikes. There are people involved that have an effect on the outcome of the hike as well. Being prepared mentally and physically for the hike are also important. Getting enough rest, packing the right snacks and drinks, dressing appropriately for the weather, and having an anticipation for adventure are all necessary for a successful hike.
As I picture my friend on these various hikes, I’m reminded of life and how it is full of adventures. Some of the adventures are rocky and difficult whereas others have a perfect path with perfect weather. Just like my friend’s hikes, each life adventure has a starting point and a peak at the end. How we come prepared is very important. The most important thing we can do is PRAY! Having a consistent prayer life will ensure that you are bringing God with you on this journey. We are reminded in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This will create the firm foundation needed to handle the rough paths as well as appreciate the smooth ones.
We also need to give attention to the journey. God has a purpose for each adventure, and it is revealed during the journey. As we pray along the journey, God will reveal things to us. It could be a lesson we need to learn, a reward or celebration, a time during which we need to grow, a faith journey, or just a fulfilling “bucket list” moment in our life.
Consider the story of Hannah from I Samuel 1. Hannah was one of the two wives of Elkanah. Hannah had not had any children but the other wife, Peninnah, had. Hannah struggled with this for many years. She would faithfully pray at the temple, pouring out her heart to God. God answered her prayers by giving her a son, Samuel. Hannah’s journey tested her faith (and her patience). It also ended with a fulfilling moment with the birth of a son.
I recall an adventure I had many years ago. I was fired from my job. I was devastated. I had never been fired before. I was a good employee that always had very positive annual reviews. It was right before Christmas. As I started on the journey, I was grateful to have the time to spend with family and get some things done around the house that needed to be done. I realized that the job was producing some stress in my life that was affecting my health and my family. God saw that too. He took me out of that situation to protect me and my health. During the time I was searching for a new job, He provided additional work for my husband. A few months later, He opened the door to a new opportunity. For me, this journey provided a test of God’s faith, a lesson for me regarding my health, and a time of growth.
As you look back over your life, what has God revealed to you through your journeys? Challenge yourself to take some of the revelations and apply them to future journeys.
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