At the End of the Detour

The weather was perfect for an afternoon bike ride. I set out on one of my favorite trails looking forward to the wide open spaces and enjoying God’s glorious creation.  Just as my legs were warming up I spotted a big orange sign: “Detour Trail Closed!”

Bummed at the disruption of my plans, I took a drink of water and assessed my options. “Where now?” As I turned around and pedaled back from where I came from I thought about the many detours in my life. How is it just when I think I know where I am heading-boom, a big orange sign jolts my plans.

The detours in life are a definite reminder that I am not in control. I am definitely not the God of my destiny. This truth often ends up being an internal wrestling match of my will. Will I surrender to the Spirit? Or will I fight against Him to press on through the detour and attempt to forge my own way?  As Proverbs 16:9 reminds us:

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD, determines his steps.”

As I was processing the “detour”  on my ride, I remembered another trail l I heard might be open. So I ventured out, found the trailhead, and sure enough it had just opened. This trail was a good workout with some hills and got my heart pounding. It was a whole new area to explore and was exhilarating!

If it wasn’t for the detour I would not have tried out this new trail! Over the years countless detours have resulted in new trails.  I am continuing to learn that our Good Father is in still in the midst of the unexpected routes of life.  It is good to make a plan, but how many times such paths don’t always go as expected and I am reminded He is still in it, perhaps even protecting us from something else.

So when a detour signs appears, I attempt to take deep breath. Step back. Wait and see what my Heavenly Father  wants to teach me. Usually it is the same point He makes again and again, “Tim, surrender and trust Me, I have the right path for you!” Perhaps one of the most important lessons in a detour is to show us at the end of the day: He is all we need. The greatest trail is one that leads to His glorious face of love. He is enough!

The well known verses in Proverbs 3:5-6 are a profound truth:

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your path.”

Trust. Don’t try to figure it all out. Keep surrendering each day to Him. Allow the detour to lead you to His heart for you. Life is filled with detours, and yet this may be the trail which will lead you to Him, the source of abundant life.

Whatever detour you maybe facing at the moment, remember Jesus is still with you and will be waiting you at the end of it.