“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the LORD has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12

Heavenly-Minded Hiking

I recently embarked on a daily adventure journey with my children. I encouraged them to look at each day as a new adventure and make the most of each day. We started out day one of this journey with a hike! I researched the hike, trying to determine if it was one the kids could handle and consensus was yes, although it was rated a moderate hike versus easy or difficult.

On the way I struck up a discussion with them and asked, “What do you each think—after Jesus comes into your life, do you think things are easier or harder?” Here were some of their responses:

  •  “Reasons it could be harder are that God is changing things in your life and it can be a hard adjustment.”
  •  “He is fixing up your life, so that can involve hard changes.”
  •  “It is easier because you know He is there with you even when things go wrong.”
  •  “Easier if you are already at rock bottom since things can only get better.”

This leads to another conversation about tackling things in life that may be difficult. I wanted to impart to them that anything worthwhile in life is worth the sometimes-difficult journey. We talked about the hike and how it might be challenging with some steady uphill climbs in a few spots. BUT, at the end we would be grateful we tackled it and the payoff was to be swimming in the pools of the waterfalls as well as eating our delicious picnic lunch.

Along the way, I was proud as I listened to their conversation and encouraging words to each other. I heard things like, “Mom, I got this!” “This isn’t too difficult!” “Mom, this is so awesome and we are getting such good exercise!” Like a lizard on the path soaking in the sun, my mama heart was warmed. As promised, we made it to the final freshwater brook pools and enjoyed the cool water and picnic lunch. They lived out a life lesson they won’t soon forget.

One last spiritual lesson we talked about as it came up was a hiking warning sign we saw along the trail. It was knocked over and although it did state “Hike At Your Own Risk,” it named several trail warnings such as falling rock, snakes, unsteady trail, narrow uphill climbs, etc. As I stepped over the sign pole to continue on, it immediately made me ponder what it looks like to “step over” the warnings in the Word.  We talked about that and how when we encounter Word warnings, we are to heed them lest we encounter any number of consequences.

Lord, thank You that even a summer hike adventure is packed with lessons from You! Help us to always be mindful of Your Word and walking in Your ways and truth. Remind us that even when things are difficult and seem to have no end, You DO have a plan and ultimately have amazing blessings for us in store.