Sometimes we can but step out in faith

Whilst listening to 'I believe' by the Blessed Union of Souls this morning, I started contemplating how there are times in life when we all we can do is step out in faith. We don't see the end point at the start like God does. We can't anticipate what the future will hold. We can only listen, straining to hear God's voice amidst the crisis, chaos and confusion of all the other sounds in our lives.

By putting one foot in front of the other, and choosing directions which we hope will draw us nearer to God and help us to walk the life that God has appointed for us, listening for the footfalls of God as He walks beside us. He knows what the future will hold. He knows where our mistakes and choices will take us. And He loves us. We can't stray off the path too much if we consistently evaluate where we are heading and assessing our bearings against where we feel and believe God is leading us.

Sometimes the only way to get to places in our future where we need to be, is to make mistakes and traverse through the darker valleys. But just because we may not always see where we're going or may stumble, doesn't negate God's presence in our lives or prevent Him from encouraging us, watching our step and keeping us from greater perils. The pain may be difficult to bear but we are not required to carry it ourselves; in fact, we're strongly advised not to even attempt to lift the heavy burdens (Matthew 11:30).

Hindsight is a glorious thing. Knowing the reason and lesson behind each landmark on our journey is a fantastic encouragement. However, the confusing, muddled thoughts in our mind, questions about where we're going, and whether a particular rock in our path is truly necessary, is a invaluable tool for growth and exciting challenge that takes us beyond our current locations and levels. So look out for the lessons, patiently endure the trials, never stop assessing your direction or speed, and feel the presence of God in your life in each and every landscape.