Lessons from Hikes

This weekend I went on a hike with a friend that really opened my eyes. I love the outdoors. I always have. Growing up was a lot of playing outside, camping, hunting, you name it. But hikes are typically not my first choice when it comes to a good time. Don’t get me wrong, I love them, but they kill my calves. My favorite way to enjoy nature is simply laying around in the outdoors. So for me, this typically means going to the beach to listen to the waves or hammocking under the trees. On this occasion, I’m thankful the beach wasn’t close by. 

The hike started off pretty easy. We were winding up the mountain at a good pace. Gradually it got steeper and steeper, which made it more challenging. We had to start intentionally watching our feet to see where we were going. I swear my friend is either a master at hiking or just has way more experience than me because I was STRUGGLING to keep up with her! All I wanted to do was look around, enjoy the view, and chat. Instead, I was breathing hard and staring at her heels in an attempt to not get left behind. Then it hit me. How much more do I need to do this in life when I’m struggling? I get so distracted by the view (what’s going on around me or the situation I’m in) rather than focusing on following Jesus’ feet on the path ahead of me. I become resistant because the view may bring joy in the moment. Little do I know, the view at the top is so much better. Now let me explain that better. I’m not saying that life isn’t about the journey, because it absolutely is. What I’m explaining is that when it comes to the journey, we can’t know what’s in store for us. All we know is where we are in the present. When we are struggling, we may become distracted from the plan because we find something in that moment that we think is worth looking around for. Instead of waiting to get to the top, where God is guiding us to an amazing view, we try to take matters into our own hands. 

More often than not, I need to just stare at Jesus’ heels on the path in front of me when I feel myself swaying. Live presently, but follow the path he is guiding me down. Or up in the case of hiking! It may seem hard in the moment but I trust that once I reach the top, it will all be worth the wait. Every struggle, every decision, and every mountaintop reached has a purpose in shaping who we are!

Keep following the path! I’d love to hear your thoughts!

With love,

Paige Riley