"For we walk by faith, not by sight."--2 Corinthians 5:7(NKJV)
There is a wonderful farm near our home that is always a nice to visit, but our favorite time to go there is in the Fall. It's so much fun! There are hayrides, pumpkin and apple picking, hot apple cider, apple cider donuts, music, and of course--a corn maze! It amazes me how people willingly pay money to feel confused and even get lost in a corn maze! In my humble opinion, not knowing where you are going and meandering sheepishly along is not a very pleasant feeling. But, it's interesting how in the case of a corn maze, we sacrifice a little uneasiness for sport. And no doubt, this is a staple of Fall outdoor entertainment.
Yet, in "real life" we typically do not want the maze. Most of us are not entertained by puzzles, confusion, and paths of uncertainty. We want clear directions, we want to know and see where we are going, and we want an ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival). We don't like detours, setbacks, retracing our footsteps because we are lost, delays, or any challenges to our well constructed, laid out plans. But life is full of these things! This is why faith in the true and living God is vital to us getting through the proverbial mazes of life. If we did not run into challenges and if things did not seem impossibly difficult--we would never need faith. The reality is, walking by faith is in our contract. God requires this of us.
Here's the good news: God is with us in the maze, and we have a personal guide onboard as we journey--the Holy Spirit. He brings comfort, help, guidance, and reassurance to settle our fretful hearts (John 14). No, we will not always get the memo or be privy to the fine details of life, but when we come to a place of confidence and resolve in our hearts that we have a good Father who loves and cares for us more than we could ever imagine we can get through the maze successfully.
Prayer
Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank you for the truth of your word. Thank you that you never leave us alone. We thank you for your Holy Spirit, our paraclete, who comes along side us and offers help, direction, guidance, and support. Sensitize our hearts to his unction. Help us to be more aware of his presence. We pray for discerning hearts that are in tune with the sound of heaven. Amen and so be it according to your word.
