We’ve packed the kids into the car. The cooler has our lunch. The diaper bag is well equipped. We buckle up and we’re off for a day of family fun in the mountains of North Carolina.
We’re excited. The anticipation of the unknown is almost tangible. We’ve lived here for three years and have yet to visit the mountains. We know our travels won’t be easy; it’s an awfully long trip. In fact, during this trip just after leaving the house we had to stop and change a very messy little boy who had decided that his diaper was for looks only and the car seat would better fit his needs. A short time later we drove through a storm. Is this trip even worth it? Does the Lord not want us to go? Should we give up and turn back? Try another day?
But no, we keep on trucking through. After all, part of the fun is the conversations the mister and I have. Full of humor. Sometimes brainstorming sessions, but mostly laughs. We always return from a trip with a story of some kind!
So is marriage. There are the rough seasons. Is this even worth it? Should I turn back? How much longer til we get ‘there’? When will we be ‘that couple’ that everyone admires? The older couple you see walking hand and hand down the path.
Be encouraged dear ones. Don’t give up. Find the joy in the storms. Look ahead because the clouds might be breaking right before you. It’s then that you’ll see the fruits of the rain that you’ve been walking through.
Enjoy your travels, as these are the roads that are telling your story. The curves that you take you’re taking together. Every once in a while, hand and hand, make sure you make a rest stop to reaffirm that you’re both on the same path. And overall make sure you’re following Him; He’s been there and He’s able to walk you out of your valleys and lead you to greener pastures.
Even though the journey’s long
And I know the road is hard
Well, the One who’s gone before me
He will help me carry on
After all that I’ve been through
Now I realize the truth
That I must go through the valley
To stand upon the mountain of God
-Third Day
Blessings!
