100 Days of HopeSample

Just Around The River Bend

Life in the Spirit is like a river. At times, the water is calm, the sun is shining, and the only thing to do is soak in the sweet air and scenery. At other times, the pace accelerates, obstacles come in quick succession, and intense focus is required. We yearn to have the entire river mapped out so we will know what is beyond each bend, but we will never traverse the same stretch twice. We can only know—very intimately—what is behind.

For what lies ahead, we are utterly dependent on the voice of our Guide, who knows how every drop of water converges and has the wisdom to get us safely through. As we witness His expertise and learn to trust His voice, we gain confidence in His commands. In following His commands, we learn His techniques, which yield a peace and certainty far beyond any map we could possess.

When we let Him lead, it becomes second nature to navigate difficult stretches without fear. When we see the water swirling, we know where to place our oar, our focus, and our confidence. We can humbly share our knowledge with others who are overwhelmed with doubt as they approach turbulent peaks. What a beautiful journey it becomes as we learn to listen and follow the voice of the one who knows us, who knows how to get us where we need to go, and who delights in sharing the adventure.

Prayer: Father God, help me to maneuver through the turbulent times in life. I place the future ahead of me in your hands because you know the best ways. You created the sunshine and the storm. Help me to heed your guidance in both of them. Guide me and keep me in all that I do.