Stay on the Trail

Rex Stump

READY

“For the Lord your God has blessed you in everything you have done. He has watched your every step through this great wilderness.” — Deuteronomy 2:7

SET

The dictionary defines wilderness as a wild and uncultivated region—one that is either uninhabited or inhabited only by wild animals. The wilderness is where my son and I discovered animal droppings and tracks freshly made in the snow and terrain. The weather was cool, and the late afternoon sun was quickly dipping behind the mountains. A clear trail amidst the cactus and rugged brush had become faint. As we turned to head back, darkness had crept rapidly in, and our trail was no longer clear. I lost the trail.

I was quickly reminded that the Bible also speaks of God’s people venturing through wilderness areas. The children of Israel who traveled to Canaan; David who hid in the wilderness from King Saul; and even Jesus who Satan tempted in the wilderness.

Today, I believe many of us have wilderness experiences, as darkness has crept in around us. Sickness, death, temptation, violence, and lack of godliness surround us.

When dark times, wilderness moments, fall upon us, don’t give up!

Without cell service, the trail on my phone app wasn’t working. We couldn’t see the trail, but we knew the direction of the main road and our parked truck. So, with a bit of prayer, it was time to move in the right direction, even though we couldn’t see the trail.

In today’s spiritual wilderness, God has given us survival tools, His living Word (the Bible), and His Spirit! Trust your almighty guide and the directions provided, and start moving forward one step at a time. You are not alone; you will make it. Just keep moving!

GO  

• Describe what your spiritual wilderness looks like today.  
• Describe a time when you trusted God to direct you.

WORKOUT

Proverbs 4:25–27; Proverbs 22:5–6; Psalm 119:97–105

OVERTIME

"Heavenly Father, this world is a dark and scary place at times. Thank You for walking with me during these challenging times. Amen."