2 Corinthians 5:7 That is why we live by believing and not by seeing. (NLT)

When I looked at the logs ascending the side of the mountain, I almost got back in the car. My youngest brother was getting married, and my middle brother, my daughter and I had planned a backpacking trip after the celebration.

We chose the Bald Mountains on the North Carolina Tennessee border, so named for the scarcity of vegetation on their summits. Once on top, the views were beyond imagination and description, but getting there was not for the faint of heart.

Our choice of entrance was a popular section of the Appalachian Trail. The trail to the summit was a towering mountain with logs implanted in its side for stairs. While in good physical shape, we had to make several stops to catch our breath before reaching the crest.

But our efforts were rewarded. We were immediately greeted by views unlike anything we had ever witnessed. It seemed we were standing on the world’s throne with miles of mountains bowing at our feet. The views were unadulterated, and we took them in as the wind took our breath. We had heard. Now we saw.

Paul says life’s walk is similar. We live by what we believe, not necessarily by what is seen. Seems like a strange conclusion since I normally react to my sense receptors-what I see, touch, smell, hear, or taste. If it tastes good, I eat it. If music pleases my ear, I don’t turn the station. If the smell is odious, I hold my breath. And if the picture is vulgar, I turn away.

But faith walking is different. I cannot always see what God has ahead. Nor can I touch, smell or taste it. And I can only hear Him in my spirit, not audibly. Yet I climb the faith logs believing He exists, loves me and has excellent plans for my life. He does for yours too. And I believe when the last log is traversed, the sights we behold will be beyond our wildest dreams.

Prayer: Father, when the way is not clear and the steps are agonizing, goad me gently on that I might continue climbing life’s logs with faith and obedience.

Martin Wiles mandmwiles@homesc.com
Harleyville, South Carolina, USA