There is a trust-building exercise where a blindfolded person is guided across an obstacle course with only the verbal instructions of a sighted partner. The success (and safety) of the effort depends on the communication skills of the guide and the listening skills of the blindfolded person.

As I move through my life, I often feel like I’m navigating an obstacle course. I stumble and trip. I often decide I’ve taken a wrong turn but don’t know how to turn back. I don’t know what other paths are available, and I can’t see what lies ahead on this one.

The reason I am so off-balance and unsure in this world is because of the blindfolding effects of sin. The terrain was rendered unstable and uneven when we chose to strike out on our own path. The devil dug a few ditches, and my own sin contributes to the obstacles.

Fortunately, I have a loving Friend who sees everything clearly — past, present, and future. He sees all the paths that were, are, and could be. And He knows exactly which way is best for me.

“A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps.” (Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭9,‬ ‭CSB)‬‬

If I listen to God carefully and constantly, I can navigate any rough patch. I can wade through a deep, boggy mire without being swallowed up, I can traverse a precarious mountain ridge without falling, and I can pass through a dark forest without getting stuck amongst the trees.

One day, my blindfold will be removed, and I will see my smiling Friend who helped me find my way. Until then, I’m listening for His guidance in the dark.

Dear God,

Thank you for staying close and speaking your guiding words to me as I stumble forward in the darkness of this world.