I love the country. There's nothing better then taking a walk down a gravel road around evening when the air is dry and the trees are swaying in the breeze. There is something about nature that gives me a greater glimpse into how God works.

When anxiety over future events or impatience with present circumstances creep in there's something that country roads can teach us. You may be worried about what the future holds in store for you or your family. You might have difficulty trusting that God is in control. You could be at your breaking point with present circumstances unless things change. When the pressure of uncertainty and desire to trust God meet we often fail to find joy.

I believe this life is much like a journey, like a trip from your home, taken along a country road to a far off destination. The thing about most country roads is that they aren't straight. They twist and turn, dip, and climb with the landscape. They go as the land goes. Our journey in life from birth to eternity is much the same, it dips and climbs, it twists and turns.

Straightaways are helpful, you can see what's up ahead. You can see if a tree has fallen in your path or if a big truck is coming. But there's something about a curve in the road that makes us distrusting and nervous. Who knows what is around that curve? Perhaps a band of thieves is laying in ambush? Perhaps there's a steep hill that will sap our strength? We don't often trust the curves in life. If we can't see what's coming next we become inward focused and we worry.

"Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." (James 4:13-14) As much as we long to know, no man knows the future. In our journey in life, much like a country road, there are corners we can't see around.

But do not be afraid for God himself made the road and he knows exactly what is around each corner. God knows what tomorrow brings. He has prepared the road and will keep us safe as we travel. He is ahead of us checking out each danger and difficulty. He is sufficient and faithful to guide us one step at a time as we travel. Though you and I are surprised by each new stretch of road and what it brings there are no surprises to God.

Once we approach the corner in our road to our destination, we get a glimpse at the next stretch ahead. As we persevere, grow, and trust God through each stretch of the journey he reveals more of what is coming and reminds us of how far we've come. And, if we are watching, He also reveals more of Himself.

Can you trust God that He will guide you lovingly and faithfully? Can you trust God that He has prepared a good road for you to walk on even if you can't see what is up ahead? Can you set aside your fears and worries in order to find joy in your journey?

When it comes down to it the journey has less to do with the road and more to do with the road builder. God is seeking to prove his love and skill to you. He is longing for you to spend time with Him on the journey, to return his love, to seek his hope, and to be excited to see Him when you finally arrive. He's also hoping for some good conversation along the way! There is joy in the journey. May you find your fulfillment in your relationship with God and follow him ahead into the adventure of what lies around the next corner. He'll take care of you.

- Josh