Every Journey has three parts – just like a good book: Beginning/Middle/End.
When I hit the trails, I love starting out. The thrill of something new. The curiosity of what I will behold in the coming steps. The basking in creation.
I also love the end of trails – exhausted, fulfillment of completion, and an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment. Maybe I also have a gratitude that the endeavor is in the past, no more burden of one more step.
But I can’t forget the middle part of the journey – step after step, multiple parts of the woods/mountains/valleys/etc, and just being in the middle of something greater then just the one place I am.
Palmer, Upper Loop, and Central Garden Trail Loop … Garden of the Gods
Too often, we focus on the beginning and the end. (Yes, I jump to the end of the books I am reading way too often.)
————————-
Recently, I heard a talk to some GenZ, college-age kids, and he mentioned too often we focus on the “there.” The “there” is the place we dream of – a job, a location, a relationship status. But before we get “there,” we have to deal with the “here.” Before “there,” we need to focus on “here.” And often, by the way we deal with the “here” … that will get us to the “there.”
Confused? Let me clarify some …
For a the past few days, we focused starting our days acknowledging His presence. We then spend specific time in devotions and prayer. But now, we need to remember this point …
4. Resolve to practice God’s presence throughout the day
God desires more than a moment with us. He desires a personal, intimate relationship with us throughout the day. Every step. Every part of the journey. Scripture reminds us that seeking God isn’t limited to a quiet time; it’s a posture of the heart. And the posture of the heart is all day long.
Practice: Throughout the day, gently turn your thoughts back to God. Whisper a prayer while working, driving, or waiting: “God, I’m aware of you here.”“You have said, ‘Seek my face.’ My heart says to you, ‘Your face, Lord, do I seek.’” —Psalm 27:8
In the words of John Fischer …
Love Him in the morning when you see the sun a-rising
Love Him in the evening ’cause He took you through the day
And in the in-between-time when you feel the pressure coming
Remember that He loves you and He promises to stay
Muddy Shoes by Todd 
Leave a comment