Trusting God Even When We Feel Lost

   “Pick up your feet!” my dad advised my younger brother and I as we marched through waist-high grass. Soon we entered the forest where there wasn’t as much brush. Thick tree trunks stretched high into the sky where their leafy limbs blocked most of the sunlight. 

   Occasional shafts of light pierced through into the semi-darkness creating the ideal setting for the opening scene of a mystery movie. I grinned. The woods were so enrapturing. But dad was moving along so there was no time to gawk. As we traipsed through the woods following a deer trail, the sound of a woodpecker methodically hammering at a tree, broke the stillness. 

   Eventually, the deer trail led to a stream, which we followed softly, careful not to disturb birds and other small wildlife. We continued on in similar manner for half an hour or so, enjoying ourselves immensely. 

   Finally, we halted, “Alright, I think it’s time to turn back now,” my dad stated, eyeing his watch. My brother and I turned to go reluctantly. Gazing at the seemingly endless expanse of trees, I suddenly realized I had no idea where we were. Trying to remain calm, I voiced my concern, “Which way is home?” My dad pointed to the west, “That way.” I frowned. “Are you sure it’s not this way,” I insisted, indicating a slightly different direction. Dad shook his head, “Come on.”  I had a choice. I could follow my dad or go the way I thought was correct. After a moment’s hesitation, I decided to defer to my father’s judgment. Subsequent twists and turns, although dizzying, eventually did lead us back home.

   During our Christian pilgrimage through the woods of life, we too can become uncertain of the way. It is easy to follow God when the course is clear and we know where we’re headed. But what happens when the journey gets tough? What do we do when we feel like God is taking us the wrong path? Do we go the direction we think is right? We shouldn’t. Trusting God, even in the midst of our own conflicting inclinations, is always the most prudent thing to do. Our heavenly Father has promised to guide, protect, and care for His children. Can we trust Him?

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

-Proverbs 3:5-6