If men were offered the opportunity to go on a rugged adventure, many of us would quickly answer, “Sign me up!” But what would your response be if you learned that the “rugged adventure” began with putting on a blindfold and following the directions of a trusted guide?! That’s a game-changer.
If it were me, my first question would be, Where are we going, and how much will it cost me? Well, the destination is Heaven. That’s right—Heaven! And it may cost you everything. Everything? Yep, everything.
This is man’s journey with Christ! It’s a journey over which we have no control; we must totally trust our guide. Our journey as men is one of participation. We are called to do God’s will, but He—not us—is in charge of the outcome. As Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Our blindfold is spiritual, not physical. While it may seem like we are walking by sight, we often find ourselves asking, Where is this journey taking me?
The simple part of having hope in where we are going is knowing our destination—Heaven. But along the way, we will encounter hills, valleys, rivers, deserts, forests, and pastures. These challenges and landscapes are all part of the process.
This is where we must trust our guide to lead us. He is a lamp at our feet, a guide to our path.
Our guide, Jesus, not only came to pay the price so we could be with Him, but He also goes to prepare a place for us. In John 14:3, Jesus promised, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” Even when we don’t feel His presence, He is there. When the path is rough, He is there. When we are led to still waters, He is there. Our peace, no matter the circumstances, depends on our trust in Him! This Guide seeks out men of courage and strength. However, what keeps a man of courage and strength is one of Great Faith—no matter the trail he’s on!
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Jesus is our guide. Just as He provided manna in the wilderness for the Israelites, He sustains us through His Word:
“This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your ancestors ate manna and died, but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” (John 6:58)
Our challenges serve as opportunities that encourage us to cultivate a deeper trust in Him, helping us grow stronger along the way:
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:11)
When we experience prosperity, He warns us not to let it become our god:
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” (1 Timothy 6:17)
When our prayers seem unanswered, He has a plan. When the path leads to unknown trials, He reminds us to hold on—He is still with us:
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)
Comfort and routine are often obstacles to spiritual growth. He wants us to seek His will. Safety and certainty are not the rewards of our Savior—trusting Him and stepping out in faith are!
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Jesus, our guide, created us for purpose and faith. Purpose and faith exist when we follow Him and trust where He is taking us. Every part of our journey consists in the One who created us.
Paul said it best: whether in great prosperity or in prison, I will praise Him! Why? Because our reward is the destination—Heaven!
Have a great weekend,
Stephen L. Thomas, RTM
