Life has a way of being ever shifting, with pockets of pain along with joy. Sometimes we trudge through the valley, boots wet and thick with mud and other times we trek to the mountaintops and are overcome by the breathtaking view. This is the way of life.

There are so many different terrains we encounter as we make our way through this world. Trails through the woods leave us confused and scared, uncertain of what is coming our way. Other times we stride through the meadow, comfortable and yet stagnant.

Yet we often fail to recognize how each terrain teaches us, shapes us, and trains us for the next stage in life. We are so obsessed with our next step that we miss how one trail slopes into a beautiful grass covered oasis. We don’t lift our eyes and see the waterfall view or hear the beautiful songbird encouraging us on our way.

When our eyes are on the ground we miss the big picture and lose the wonder that accompanies each stage in life. Instead we see the dirt, the mud, the crushed grass beneath our feet.

When we go through tough times we feel the straining of our muscle and curse the steepness of the trail. And yet, we miss the strengthening of our our muscles that helps us to carry on and reach our destination.

Pain is not comfortable, but it forces us to adjust and learn and grow in our respective path. Recognize the strength that your journey has brought you and be glad.

Life is not a straightforward path with a clear view. But would we really want it to be?

If we did not sojourn through the desert would we appreciate the fresh rain that falls? If we did not trudge through the woods, we would miss the wildflowers of blessing God wants to reveal to us.

God sustains us through each terrain, teaching us and strengthening us. And He will use it all for good. Don’t wish for the easy path; you will miss out on the beauty and blessing that is found in following God’s path.

“When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;”

Isaiah 43:2-3

How is that for a promise? We can bravely walk through life knowing Who is holding our hand. But don’t fail to look up and see.

See the goodness. See the growth. See how God provides. And let your heart be glad even if we do not know what the curve in the path will bring.

Keep going. Keep trusting. Keep obeying. Persevere so that you may be able to say:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7