How long does it take you to drive 20 miles? Scott and I live 20 miles from Woodland Park, Colorado (where we attend church, buy groceries, etc.) and it takes us an average of 30 minutes to travel the distance. “How slow are you driving?” you may ask. Part of our drive is on winding mountain roads with speed limits between 35–45 miles per hour. For a girl that grew up in the eastern part of North Dakota, this was quite a change from the straight roads and open plains. The winding roads have lightened my pressure on the gas pedal a bit!

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:6). In this Scripture verse, God is not saying all roads will be straight. He is simply saying if we follow Him, He will remove obstacles from our path and bring us to our goal.

While driving in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, I’ve learned a few things, and they seem to coordinate nicely with my faith life.

First, winding roads will still get you where you’re going — but you must stay on course. When traveling with neighbors to dinner one evening, my friend spotted a golden eagle in a tree and promptly veered off-road to get a closer look (she drives a Jeep). Needless to say, we were all caught off guard. She only turned back to the road because it was pointed out that she shouldn’t be driving on someone else’s property. Note: Life is never dull with a friend like Loretta! Staying on course is equally important for our faith and God provides us with all that we need. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

Another lesson I pray all who are driving take to heart is obeying the traffic signs and rules. There is a reason for double yellow center lines and speed limits. This area has seen too many fatalities because impatient drivers pass on blind curves. Obey the rules, save a life — for some, hard lessons learned tragically.

Insight #3: Distractions are everywhere, but when you are behind the wheel, your attention should be on the road. That’s not always easy when a herd of elk saunters by or the colors of autumn light up the mountainside. The importance of remaining focused is true while driving and true in all that we do as God’s children. Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! (1 Chronicles 16:11).

Insight #4: As I get older, I understand why my parents preferred traveling during the day. It’s much easier to travel in the light! This is true for so many things here on earth and certainly true when it comes to our faith. It is not a coincidence that Jesus says He is the Light of the world. Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).

Insight #5: While driving in these mountains, I need a roadmap. One wrong turn and I may easily get lost. With GPS or a map, I can determine the approximate distance, how meandering the road may be, and how long it may take me to arrive at my destination. Isn’t it wonderful that our Lord provides a roadmap for us? The Bible guides us through this life and reveals His grace and mercy as we live as His children and look forward to everlasting life in heaven. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105).

I love the winding roads. As we ride the roads of this life, let’s give thanks to God that He gave us His everlasting Word. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away (Matthew 24:35).

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie