I took the wrong turn headed down to fireworks the other day. I was not entirely sure where to park, amidst all the traffic. We found a good spot that was not busy and decided to park there. Though we had to walk a little, it worked out. I had family that had gotten a seemingly much better spot. It was right by the fireworks display and little walking was needed. When the fireworks ended and it came time to go home, my family realized that they were stuck in traffic. Apparently, almost everyone else thought that it was a good place to park too. As we headed for our vehicle, we had to walk some. Though once we arrived, we were able to completely avoid traffic and got home in relatively good timing. Sometimes friend, we may wind up where we did not expect to be. Maybe it is farther away from the place where we expected to be. Maybe it is not where everyone else is. Maybe it is farther down the road than intended. Though, we find we are right where we need to be. God does not say we all travel the same path, but He does lead us exactly where He wants us. In doing so, we find we are exactly where we needed to be. I am grateful that I had to walk a little further, that I did not take that same path as everyone else. As when the end of the fireworks came, things went so much better because of it. Friend, wherever life takes us, may we trust God. For there is no better navigator than Him; and when life takes us down the road unexpected, may we remember He knows what is best. For whether God brought us to that road, or we got ourselves there; He can turn the unexpected into a blessing. Life is always better traveled with having God by our side.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Luke 4:10-11 NIV

For it is written: “’He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”

Proverbs 2:8-9 NIV

for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair-every good path.

Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.