Detour

Not long ago, we were on a family road trip when we came upon an unexpected delay. The road closure did not appear on our google map and therefore, we sat for endless hours in our SUV. Naturally, this resulted in much complaining, whining and unsolicited comments like

“Are we there yet?” 

How we handle unexpected bumps and detours in our personal journeys is a true test of character and maturity. This past week, my daughter did not make the high school volleyball team and my heart simply ached for her. No longer would she be a part of the team which she loves. However, her level of maturity completely stunned me and once again, my kids are the ones teaching me.

“Mom, it’s just an opportunity for me to try something new. I’m actually looking forward it.”

What if we all had this outlook on life when facing a disappointment. How different our lives would be. Often we look at roadblocks as the end of the road, rather than seeing it as a detour which God has provided. There could be many reasons for the redirection of our path…and here are just a few thoughts:

• God has a plan for us…even with the pit stops, roadblocks and detours. Look for the lesson God is trying to teach you on your new, redirected path.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer 29:11

• Rejection can be God’s hand of protection. You cannot always see what lies up ahead. It is possible that this path would not be good for you.

“From heaven the Lord looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth—he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do.” Psalm 33:13-15

• We can trust God that He is working all things together for our good. We may need to have some chaff burned off in order to better reflect His image. There may be another option we never considered before. Maybe this time of searching is simply to draw us closer to God, to reconnect with Him. We may not immediately see what God is doing–but we can learn to trust Him more.

“Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.” Psalm 9:10

• God wants our identity to be secure in Him–not in what we do or accomplish. No matter what, He loves us. Before we do anything (seriously–any single thing)…before the beginning of time–He chose us.

“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.” Eph 1:4

• It may be time to dig in with resolve to stick with God through thick or thin. Look at Ruth’s determination after an incredible setback, the loss of her husband…she determined in her heart she would follow.

“But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” Ruth 1:16