Avoid the Detours
By Stacy Wendell

When I think about my life I can see a winding road. In the distance this road appears to be undisturbed and fresh, no signs of wear from travel. The haze of sunlight is there to light the path. The tree lined road is well landscaped and is blooming with beautiful greenery and flowers. If you close your eyes and breathe deep you can almost smell the intoxicating fragrances as the gentle calming breeze whispers pass your face. In the distance you can sense the peace of God on this road.

As we move closer to the road we can see that it’s been paved with the many phases that life brings; emotional asphalt, a special mixture of blood, sweat, tears, joys, sorrows, triumphs, disappointments, memories and hard learned life lessons. This is your road to travel. Sometime the road gets bumpy and it would be so much easier to take the new path marked “detour”. God wants us to stay the course.

We ask others for directions; at times we allow someone else’s journey to become part of our experience. We lose track of our travels and follow someone else’s lead. These “detours” can be devastating to our lives. I have always been told to stay on the straight path; to avoid the detours during my travels, because it’s easy to get lost following the detours. God has laid a beautiful map before you, a journey that you were uniquely meant to take. Each step helps you move closer to your destiny. Each obstacle you encounter helps to grow your character and stretch your faith. Someone may come along and claim they have found an easier way, a “detour”. Don’t you believe it for one moment!

Remember not everyone you encounter on your way will have your best interests in mind or heart. Even people you would least expect could cause you to become distracted and lose focus on your ultimate destination. Pray for them and their selfish motivations and then: Follow the map, enjoy the challenges, and find peace on YOUR path. Avoid the “Detours”!