Trust.

Trust: a firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something (Oxford Dictionary).

It is the very foundation of your faith in Him. When you prayed for salvation, you surrendered control of your life over to Him. However, the minute that things look precarious or uncertain, your natural instinct is to doubt Him and the good plan that He has for your life. The Lord knows that you are imperfect and will stumble in your faith along the way, but the truth is that He is near.

When lying voices tell you that He is nowhere near you, dwell on the truth of His word. He is with you always even to the end of the age and He has promised to go with you and to never leave you nor forsake you.

This moment is just a blink of the eye in the adventure You are on together. He never promised that the path He chose for you would be the shortest, easiest, or most direct of routes. The Israelites wandered 40 years through the wilderness. So, consider that maybe, just maybe, this indirect path is on purpose. Trust that He will shepherd you through the unexpected detours and that they are all a part of His plan. When you see an unexpected twist or turn ahead, instead of leaning into doubt, declare your trust in Him again. Dare to receive those detours with thanksgiving and come along with Him for the ride of your life.

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6

“In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.” – Isaiah 30:15

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)