God Speaks Amidst the Trees
April 3, 2020 (Corona Quarantine)
Dave and I went walking at the Dunes this week, and we left the trail so refreshed! Not only because we got lots of fresh air, but because God’s handiwork was evident at every turn.
Despite the brown landscape with life still waiting to emerge, I could still see many real-life lessons. I took pictures each time I could see God working. I hope you can see too!
Trail Partner
It really does matter who you choose to walk this life with, so choose well. This guy right here is the love of my life. I knew he was “the one” from the moment I first laid eyes on him, spring of 1994 at Loyola. He guides me well. He’s consistently strong and he loves me unconditionally. He keeps me from harm’s way, often times my own selfish desires, and helps me to recognize when I am off the straight and narrow.
Neon Signs
Sometimes God grants us the mercy of revealing the obvious path we should take. It’s not very often for me, but sometimes there’s that “neon sign” in my life to show me which trail to take, and I am SO grateful when He does this for me!
Knots
Do you ever feel a knot in your stomach that just won’t go away? When God tells me to pause, it’s usually in the form of a knot in my stomach… it causes me to wait and pray, to pursue His will, not my own. It’s a feeling of un-rest, the opposite of peace.
Power Source
Along the road part of the trail, I saw this power tower. Clearly, someone had to bring in an outside power source in order to supply the necessary power to the area. As Christians, we don’t need an external source of power. God’s supernatural power and strength are available to us at any time! The power of the Holy Spirit lives within us – at all times, praise God!
Holes in our Soul
There are times when I sense something eating at my soul. It could be a lie I choose to believe, bitterness that won’t let go, or perhaps my own selfish desires. These little holes are just large enough to cause me to lose my way and fall far from the Lord.
Resting Place
Don’t you just love those times in life when God calls you to rest? This simple bench reminded me of those times. When I take the time to rest and be still, really still, I can hear God speaking to me.
Cut Down
Ever feel exposed and vulnerable? This huge tree was cut down to its base, exposed for the world to see what it’s really made of. I’m learning to lean into that kind of vulnerability. As uncomfortable as it can be sometimes, it really forces me to trust God at a very deep level.
Unexpected Encouragement
These creative trail markings were an encouragement to me! Sometimes when I feel discouraged, God sends encouragement … an email, a card in the mail, a text that comes at just the right time.
Trail Closed
I don’t know about you, but there are times when I just need God to say GO THE OTHER WAY! If only there was a nice explanation like this sign 🙂
Growth At Last
Regardless of what we experience on the trail of life, when we walk with the Lord, growth is always happening! Although some seasons of life may appear lifeless and dull on the outside, tender, new growth awaits each and every one of us.
Carry on my friend… the walk is worth it.
BLOOM 