The Untrodden Way
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“These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” (Hebrews 11:13, KJV)
What unseen difficulties line the long, dark mile of the untrodden way? And, oh, how our heart hesitates to venture on into the uncertainty of the unproven. The problem with pilgrims is that the tendency to settle increases with the need for some sense of security.
After a stout trek across a barren stretch we arrive at a place of repose along the way; a place replete with so much of heaven’s firstfruits, that we feel perhaps we should make this spot our abiding place. But we seek a City, whose builder and maker is God, and this in not that City. We must press on.
“In short there’s simply not a more convenient spot for happy-ever-aftering than here, in dear Old Camelot.” So goes the musical, but that’s really all it is — a song in a play. And while it touches the sentimental chords of our earthbound frames, our spirits seek a higher heaven.
Our forefathers in the faith saw it from afar, and so pressed onward till the very day they died — not yet having possessed it. How then can we who follow in their train, now pitch our tent and take our ease? And what, if the Lord should tarry, would become of those who followed our loitering example?
Beloved, we are strangers and pilgrims on this earth. Our home is yet somewhere else. and so, for that reason, we gather up our resolve and press onward even if the way seems uncertain. One thing we know for sure….the Lord is awaiting us just up ahead.
The way sure seems uncertain and the promises always just out of reach in this walk. Or, as so often I like to make it, a sprint! I am on the hunt and I am satisfied with the changing scenes and unbeaten path and prefer it…pressing forward anyway. I often don’t know what is happening and maybe that is how He likes it—always heart in hand in trust with my Father led by HIs Spirit into unknown places where victories await. The timing is all His. The trusting is all mine.
I thank the Lord for this timely post from you James. Very helpful in the midst of a struggle. Blessings always from here. Donna