Just keeping going…
I was driving along the interstate in brief, intermittent rain, when all of a sudden, out of seemingly nowhere, the heavens opened and a torrential wall of rain came down. Like the 'I can't see 5ft in front of me' kind of downpour. It felt as if I was standing behind a waterfall and was looking outward.
Traffic immediately slowed to a crawl. And then, rather abruptly, all of the vehicles in front of me started pulling over to the side of the road, flashers blinking brightly. Apparently hoping that the wall of water would soon pass and then they could proceed on their journey more safely.
But I kept creeping along, unconvinced that pulling over to the side of the interstate was actually the safest option. That action had ‘sitting duck’ written all over it. I was going to take my chances and stay in my lane. The entire downpour lasted maybe 20 seconds. Over as quickly as it had begun. But it got me thinking….
How often do we see danger or a threat or even a minor opposition, and we're ready to change course? We're ready to give up all of our hard work and effort because we don’t believe there is a clear path forward.
Or sometimes, we even over-spiritualize the situation, and, at any mention of an obstacle, we interpret it as a sign from God to change course. If our situation isn’t working out seamlessly, then God must not want us on this path. He’s trying to tell us to change directions. To choose a new course.
But, in reality, the thing we might be seeking most is standing, waiting for us on the other side of that obstacle. What if that goal is just a few seconds or a few inches away? What if you just need one final push to the finish line?
What if that obstacle isn’t God redirecting your path but challenging you to keep the course? Pushing and stretching those faith muscles, causing you to turn back to Him at every jag in the road. Reminding you that you can’t conquer that obstacle in your own power or might. Tenderly redirecting you to your life source of immeasurable power.
What if that obstacle is a gracious gift? A gift to remind you that you are seen. And known. And loved. And pursued. And desired. How would that obstacle change before your eyes? It may still not be easy or pleasant to cross, but you know the Guide.
Beloved daughter, don't give up prematurely. Don't be thrown off by a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. Stay the course. Lean into Him. Just keep going. Even if you need to hit the brakes a little bit.
In what area do you need to stay the course?
- Lani
