Off the Beaten Path

While Dave and I were in the mountains last week we walked quite a bit off the beaten path. Oh yes, there were paved, sort of, roads through the campground but getting to the lake and carrying our trash to the dumpsters was shorter if we cut through the forested area and didn’t go on the path.

There were a few times when Dave walked beside me or even behind me to make sure I didn’t trip or fall. He’s good about doing things like that.

And then there’s those times when you are in a public place and see the signs posted “Watch your Step”. In addition to the warning, it’s nice to have someone there beside you to steady you when the way forward is uncertain.

I remember our many visits with my mother. When we went out she had her cane and/or her walker, but she enjoyed taking our arm just to steady her. I remember holding her hand when I was a child and we would go places. In high school we would find ourselves walking down the street hand in hand. (I didn’t need her assistance then, but I liked the feeling of her hand in mine.)

I was reminded of these examples this morning as I was reading near the end of Psalm 119. That’s what God does for us! He takes our hand and steadies our steps.

“Your teachings are wonderful, and I respect them all. ¹³⁰ Understanding your word
brings light to the minds of ordinary people. ¹³¹ I honestly want to know everything you teach. ¹³² Think about me and be kind, just as you are to everyone who loves your name.
¹³³ Keep your promise and don’t let me stumble or let sin control my life. ¹³⁴ Protect me from abuse, so I can obey your laws. ¹³⁵ Smile on me, your servant, and teach me your laws.
¹³⁶ When anyone disobeys you, my eyes overflow with tears.” Psalm 119:129-136 CEV

God’s word keeps us from stumbling when we apply it to our lives.

“ Offer praise to God our Savior because of our Lord Jesus Christ! Only God can keep you from falling and make you pure and joyful in his glorious presence. Before time began and now and forever, God is worthy of glory, honor, power, and authority. Amen.” Jude 24-25 CEV

Whether the road ahead is paved and smooth or off the beaten path, the Lord is there!

Father, today my path may be uncertain. I’m not sure where You will lead and what the terrain may be but I am certain that if You are with me. You won’t let me stumble. Thank you for keeping Your promise. I love walking hand in hand with You!