Look for the Trail Signs

Hiking used to be the most dreaded activity for me. My family tried making it a fun affair, but 12-year-old me would drag my feet with my attitude in hand every trip. I couldn’t understand why we would walk hours uphill to only look at a view for 30 minutes.    

Now that I’m an “adult”, I love every second of it. I’ve hiked mountains in the Rockies to the tallest peak in Swaziland, Africa. 

My faith has been the same way. When I was younger, I used to not understand why I was being dragged to church every Sunday to try to get into a place where we apparently were already invited into.

Now that I’m an “adult” I love the chance to worship, whether it is in my home congregation or a huge cathedral because it gives me the continuous reminder of the grace that invites us into the Body of Christ. 

This morning, I went on another hike in Austria.. Not knowing what the view would look like.. Not being familiar with the trail or where it even went. 

After 3 hours of walking, praying, singing, thinking, enjoying all the wildflowers, etc. I was exhausted. The trail signs were visible but most of them were in German and I had no idea where I was going or if it would be worth it.. But right when I got discouraged, another trail sign would show up. 

Our life is kind of the same way. We go through day-to-day on this journey with the Lord, wishing for signs to lead us in the right direction. We hike through challenges and steep hills waiting for direction from Him. And yes, sometimes I feel like the signs He gives are in German to decipher... but they always show up if we look for them. 

Just like a trail sign, a sign from God could come at the time when we need it the most. It could also come at a time where we think we are on the right path, we just need confirmation. 

We have the opportunity to seek Him in signs he gives us.. Large or small.. Constantly or widely spread.. Hidden behind branches or painted right in front of you on a tree.. 

Just look for the trail markers.. and keeping hiking towards Him.  I promise the view at the top will be worth more than we can imagine. 

Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”