the journey of god

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Why should God let you into Heaven?

Do you know the answer? Are you confident in your salvation?

Bible Verses About Journey

What does the bible say about journey.

Have you recently trusted in Christ alone for salvation? Now it’s time to start your journey. Your Christian journey will not be easy, but God will give you strength to press on daily and overcome any situation. God promises to work in your life until the end to make you more like Christ. The Christian life is like a huge adventure with Christ.

You might have to take a few pit stops, you might get a flat tire here and there, you might go through a few thunderstorms , but though all your experiences, fruit is being built. You are becoming stronger, and your faith and reliance in Christ is growing.

God will take out bad habits and sin from our life. God has given us various things to help us on our journey such as prayer. We must spend time with the Lord daily . We are to have an intimate relationship with God. We are given the Bible to help us walk uprightly.

Scripture will help us connect and focus on the Lord. It will protect us from many different situations in life and give us daily wisdom. God has given believers the Holy Spirit to help us on our walk of faith. He will guide us in the right direction.

He will show us what to do. He will convict us when we’re going the wrong way. He will show us things in our lives that are holding us back and more.

We can also pray to the Spirit for help, peace, and comfort in times of trouble. We might be in the world, but we are not to follow the worlds desires. Allow your journey to glorify God.

Christian quotes about journey

“ My life is my journey with God . It may be hard sometimes but I am assured it would be all worth it.”

“Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.”

“The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.”

Trust in the Lord on your long journey.

1. Proverbs 3:5– 6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart , and do not rely on your own understanding.  Acknowledge him in all your ways, and he will make your paths straight.

2. Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord , and whose hope the Lord is.

Journey of life with God

God will work in your life to conform you into the image of Christ. The little things that you might go through are to help change you.

3. Romans 8:29 For those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son , so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers .

4. Philippians 1:6 I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

5. 2 Peter 3:18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.

6. Colossians 2:6-7 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.

You will have to go through many trials and different obstacles.

7. James 1:2-4 Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance . But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.

8. Romans 5:3-5 Not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. Now this hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

9. John 16:33 I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.”

10. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Press on with your journey of faith

11. Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Keep your eyes on your captain or you will get lost and distracted.

12. Hebrews 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith ; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

You will not get through your walk of faith without prayer.

13. Luke 18:1 Jesus told his disciples a parable about their need to pray all the time and never give up.

14. Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit , and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints .

God gave you a helper. Allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life and guide your life.

15. John 14:16 I will ask the Father to give you another Helper , to be with you always.

16. Romans 8:26 At the same time the Spirit also helps us in our weakness , because we don’t know how to pray for what we need. But the Spirit intercedes along with our groans that cannot be expressed in words.

Meditate on the Word: Allow God to guide you through His Word.

17. Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

18. Proverbs 6:23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:

Imitate Christ and do the will of God.

19. Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do , and he will establish your plan.

20. John 4:34 Jesus said to them, “ My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.

On our journey we must continually avoid Satan, confess our sins, and forsake them.

21. Ephesians 6:11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to s tand firm against all strategies of the devil.

22. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins , he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

23. 1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

Examples of journey in the Bible

24. Jonah 3:2-4 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.” Jonah obeyed the word of the LORD and went to Nineveh. Now Nineveh was a very large city; it took three days to go through it.  Jonah began by going a day’s journey into the city, proclaiming, “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overthrown.”

25. Judges 18:5-6 Then they said, “Ask God whether or not our journey will be successful.” “ Go in peace,” the priest replied. “For the LORD is watching over your journey.”

Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God . I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.

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• Talents For The Kingdom
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Our Journey with God

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Introduction

“Life’s a journey, not a destination,” Steven Tyler sang in the rock band Aerosmith’s 1993 song, “Amazing.”

Amazing doesn’t quite describe the quirky fact that the very same phrase Aerosmith used in 1993 was used in 1920 by Methodist pastor and theologian Lynn H. Hough in a Sunday school lesson outline on the New Testament letter of 1 Peter: “ life is a journey and not a destination .” However, we may want to hear the rest of the quote to make sense of it:

Life is a journey and not a destination; that the heart must be set upon those matters of character which are eternal and not upon those matters of sensation which pass away.

I think Steven Tyler would have been as shocked as Lynn Hough that their view of life was shared in this instance.

Yet, both of them echo a reality woven throughout the Scripture about our lives as human beings: we are on a journey through our days. Ideally, that journey is with God, but regardless of whether we believe in God or not, “journey” is the way we experience life.

One of the places where this comes clear in Scripture is in a little section of the Old Testament Book of Psalms known as the Psalms of Ascent.

The Psalms of Ascent consist of 15 psalms, from 120 through 134. While there are different ideas about what the “ascent” referenced in this group is all about, the most likely possibility is that these psalms were sung and prayed by pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem. They were traveling to the temple in celebration of the three main festivals of the Hebrew people: Passover, Pentecost, and Booths (Exodus 23:14-17). No matter where they were, they would ascend toward Jerusalem because it was on the heights, but also because it was symbolically the spiritual high point where God dwelt with human beings.

These pilgrim songs, these road-trip prayers, acted like a soundtrack for the people of God in their travels. They took the Hebrew people back to the nomadic faith journey of Abraham and the liberation journey of the Exodus. It was a reminder that they were a people on the way with God.

These psalms do the same for us today as well. They remind us that our life with God is a journey. It is a journey with God, but also a journey with his people on the way to the eternal kingdom.

The writer to the Hebrews in the New Testament describes God’s people as “foreigners and strangers on earth … looking for a country of their own” (Hebrews 11:13-14). With the Psalms of Ascent we sing and pray a soundtrack for the pilgrimage of our life with God, not just to Jerusalem, but to the eternal country that is our heavenly home in God for eternity.

In these Psalms of Ascent we see what it means to be shaped spiritually by God and his truth more than the surrounding context of our world. In a culture set on instantaneous achievement, instantaneous acquisition, instantaneous food out of a microwave or vending machine, we know life does not really work that way. The Psalms of Ascent slow us down enough so that we can take our time on a journey with God. There are certain things that we need in our lives, in our souls, if we are really going to grow with God over the long haul. These psalms show us what it means to grow over time, not in an instant; what it means to live life on a pilgrimage, where we draw nearer to seeing God in space and time every hour of our lives.

Beginning with the Lord in Our Distress

In the 2010 movie The Way we follow Tom, an American doctor, who receives the shocking news that his estranged adult son has unexpectedly died in a storm while hiking the Camino de Santiago, or the Way of Saint James. Dealing with his unresolved grief, Tom decides to honor his son’s desire to complete the Camino by embarking on the historical pilgrimage himself. Unprepared and not physically conditioned for it, Tom’s journey takes him beyond himself. He encounters his need for others, his need for resolution of his grief, and his need for a deeper spiritual meaning in life.

The film is moving to watch and parallels some of the real reasons people walk this historic pilgrimage path today. Some friends of mine run a hostel at the end of the Camino, in the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela. Time and again they encounter people who are searching for something in their lives. Many are in the midst of distress and the walk along the Camino de Santiago becomes a pilgrimage not only physically but spiritually, as they seek a breakthrough to a deeper, more spiritual reality in life.

For most of us, the journey of our lives involves moments of distress. This is how Psalm 120 begins.

(Read Psalm 120:1-2)

When we think about going on a spiritual journey, this may feel like a strange way to start. However, it shouldn't feel strange because the beginning of our own journey with God involves coming to the end of ourselves. It begins with us saying, “Save me, God.”

Life is all about this. If life is about nothing else, it's about realizing that we are, if I can borrow bit of a language from Alcoholics Anonymous, powerless to change ourselves. We need a higher power. You may know that AA has its roots in Christianity. This acknowledgment that change happens when we come to the end of ourselves and reach out to God is just what we see in Psalm 120:1-2. Of course, that is not just true of alcoholics. It's true of anyone who exists on earth.

If you've been on the journey with God, you know this. So many times in our lives, we come to the end of ourselves because of physical situations in our lives, because of spiritual realities that we're dealing with, because of emotional difficulties in our lives, because of relational things that are happening, or even the broader challenges in the world around us. Sometimes simply reading the news is enough to bring us to the end of ourselves.

The journey with God begins by simply saying, “I do not have it in myself to make it in the abundant life, the best life possible and so, God, would you save me because I actually am in distress in one way or another.” That beginning is marked by honesty with God .

Sometimes when people come to church they think they need to put on a game face. It’s the religious game face with the religious answers and the religious smile that says everything is great. But the reality is different. We come to worship from a lot of different places and some of us are not great now. Don't misunderstand me. God is still great. God is still good. He's still almighty. However, there are moments of distress that come in our lives, when one of the most spiritual things we can do is to admit it before God and everybody else. It doesn't mean we stay in that place forever, but we say, “God, I need you.” Wherever we are coming from in this moment today, it is good to simply express to God, “I need you.”

When we get honest with God in prayer—admit that we have needs, admit that we have distress, admit that we have come to the end of ourselves—something new begins. It says in Scripture that God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). That does not mean we have to walk around heavy-hearted all the time. It does means that when we cannot carry ourselves, God loves to step in and carry us. The meaning of the incarnation of Jesus is that God steps inside of humanity’s broken existence that he might carry us back to himself; that we might be reconciled back to God through Christ. The honest admission of our need to God is the beginning of our journey with God.

Distress can open something up for us when we call to God, when we let him be, as verse two says, our Savior. That's the personal name of God, Yahweh : “Yahweh, please save me from lying lips and from deceitful tongues.” Now, here's the reality about distress. Sometimes there is distress inside of us and at other times there is distress surrounding us. God is the kind of being who, when we say, “I need you, I'm in distress,” he is there and he saves. Whether it's the internal distress or the surrounding distress, God is a Savior big enough for the external and the internal distress in our lives.

Is anybody in distress today? Are you feeling it on the inside? Are you feeling it around you? Do you feel it in the nation? Do you feel it in the world? God is not bound by what's inside of us or what's beyond us. He is the Almighty God and God is also close at hand.

Untangling Falsehood with God’s Truth

Have you ever had somebody tell lies about you? There is nothing you can do about it. I mean, you could try. I’m not encouraging this, but you could punch the person in the face so they couldn't talk. You could try that, but it would not stop the root of the problem. Maybe you wish you had a mute button on other people. Just be careful. They may wish they had a mute button on you, too.

What can lies do to you? Well, lies can do some things to you. They can ruin your reputation. They can make things very difficult for you. They can make circumstances bad. They can make people you love become people you hate. What can lies do to you? A lot of things, but not everything. There is a limit on what lies can do. The real question is: What can God do in the midst of lies?

(Read Psalm 120:3-4)

Sounds extreme, doesn't it? How does God feel about lies? Well, this is what it says in Proverbs 12:22, “Yahweh detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”

When lies come against us or when lies come out of our mouth, God is not full of joy. He detests that. Why? Because he is a God of truth and there will come a day, the scriptures tell us, when the truth will be revealed. If I needed a sermon illustration, I could easily just point at the news. Again and again, no matter how hard we try to hide things that are in the darkness, the truth comes out. There will come a day when all the lies that people use to cover over darkness will be brought into the light. Honestly, it will be a scary moment when the lies of our lips are shown to be the lies that they are.

It says here in Psalm 120 that God advocates for truth and he actually stands against those who are liars. This reflects what Jesus says in John 8:44 about the devil. “When he [the devil] lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). The problem is that sometimes we learn the native language of the devil and we take it inside of ourselves. The apostle Paul says this to the early church: “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices” (Col. 3:9).

Contrary to lying is loving one another, carrying each other's burdens, and being a person who is trustworthy and true. Scripture offers us a picture of the end of human history, that shows even if there are lies that have been placed out there, God will come and brings the fullness of his kingdom. What is that kingdom like? This is the way it is described in Zephaniah 3:12-13:

I will leave within you the meek and humble. The remnant … will do no wrong; they will tell no lies. A deceitful tongue will not be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid.

This does not sound like the rulers of the earth, does it? This describes the fulfillment of Psalm 120. God is at work in the midst of the world, and though lying lips may do things to us in our lives, God is our defender standing in the truth, standing against the father of lies and all those who have learned his language, even when it gets inside of us. God stands against that and calls us to be the kind of people who are not only standing in the truth ourselves, but are actually protected by the father of truth. This is the invitation to a becoming a different sort of person, living by a different sort of story, in the midst of a different sort of journey?

Living for Peace in the Midst of Conflict

“Well,” you may say, “that sounds good, Matt, but my life is not like that. You don’t know what my workplace is like and what my neighborhood is like.” I understand that. But listen to what the Psalmist says next.

(Read Psalm 120:5)

Meshek and Kedar may be a bit confusing. Meshek is in present-day Turkey, beyond the northern-most border of the land of Israel, and Kedar is located in present-day Saudi Arabia, south of the land of Israel. These are two foreign peoples located at the extreme opposite ends of Israel.

When the people would go on pilgrimage, they would come from a lot of different places around the land. This writer of Psalm 120 is not saying that he’s necessarily living in these places, but that these two peoples serve as figurative names of the barbarian people that he is in the midst of (Kidner, Psalms 73-150, p. 430). He’s saying, “Oh man, the people I live in and around, they remind me of the heathen barbarians. That's the way that I feel right now. They are these people far off in the furthest reaches and not at all like God’s people.”

We could ask ourselves, who or what is our Meshek and Kedar today? Meshek and Kedar are different things for each of us. They are places we feel like we find ourselves amidst people where God’s truth and way is not upheld. They are the places we find ourselves where a kind of heathen imagination and imagination that's far from God takes us captive. Meshek and Kedar represent what’s happening when we find ourselves trying to live for God, trying to be on pilgrimage, trying to see the celestial city that we're aiming for, trying to hear God's voice, but all we can hear is the rumblings of the chaotic mindset contrary to God around us.

Do you ever experience these sorts of realities? It is almost as if the psalmist feels unable to see beyond the chaos into the destination of the journey. “Woe to me that I dwell in Meshek, that I live among the tents of Kedar. Too long have I lived among those who hate peace.”

The prayers in the Psalms of Ascent are songs of a people on the journey with God, even in the midst of people, lands, and times that are at odds with God. As we take this pilgrimage with God, we join in prayer together, singing these songs many times in a land and in the presence of people that seem to be against us. Even when we feel like someone is against us or like the territory or environment is at odds with our faith journey, it is an opportunity.

The journey with God starts right where we are, right in the midst of the chaos of the world around us. We cannot wait to get to another place that is difficulty-free to start the journey. Instead, we start the journey in the midst of opposition, right in the places that are not for peace, right in the places that seem to be dead-set against God's ways, even the places where conflict and lies seem gathered around. In the mist of those places, the people of God can step forward and say, “In this place, I am for God. I am for truth. I am for his ways.” That is where the journey begins.

The prayers of the people on pilgrimage arise from a community joining together on the journey in an alien, or even hostile, place. They sing these song as they journey together, and that, too, is instructive to us. The journey with God is not just something you do on your own. The Psalms of Ascent are a communal journey. Imagine a group of a cluster of people off on the very edges of Israel, maybe past Syria, towards the land of Meshek, and they’re beginning to go on pilgrimage to Jerusalem. As they traverse the land, they begin to sing Psalm 120. One person starts the song and the hearts that are heavy and the minds that are worn out from living amidst a people opposed to God begin to join in with the song together. Sometimes you just need somebody else to start the song so you can join in and get going on the journey together as well.

This week I received a song like that. Actually, it was a WhatsApp message from one of our friends who serves in another part of the world and is enduring some great hardships and violence. She reached out to a number of us requesting prayer and many of us responded with little messages of encouragement, saying things like, “We’re with you and we're praying for you.” After a while, she responded: “Thank you, Lord, for giving me spiritual family that can never be taken away!”

These prayers and songs of the people on the journey with God are prayed together. They are sung together because we need each other, and it's when we pray and sing together that our hearts are lifted up beyond the circumstances and the environment that’s opposed to God or us. When we reach out to one other and say, “We’re with you. We journey together,” the burden becomes lighter. We carry one another's burdens, lift one another's arms when we cannot go on, and we start to sing the songs of the Lord.

That's the journey of the people of God. It's not just one person but clusters of people. Is there a group of people around you who lifts your arms when you cannot rise? Are there people around you who can start to sing the song when you cannot sing the song yourself? Is there somebody there you can reach out to and say, “Pray for me because I am dwelling in the land of Meshek and Kedar.” We need each other.

(Read Psalm 120:6-7)

When we read this psalm, for some of us it is easiest to relate to the troubles dwelling in Meshek and living in Kedar. But the movement of this psalm is toward peace, not toward sitting in the darkness or giving into the hatred around us.

That word, “peace,” is the well-known Hebrew word shalom . It’s one of the most prominent words in the Hebrew Bible. It does not simply mean inner peace or the absence of conflict. It means that everything is right and good in God’s world as he intends it to be. Biblical peace is not just personal, but is a social and relational peace. It means that the community is truly together, not just living without strife, but actually living with things being right, good, and harmonious, individually and together.

In light of the context of Meshek and Kedar, peace here means God’s people are free from judgment, oppression, and warfare. It means God’s people are living the good life, the way that God intended it to be, regardless of their setting. That is true both personally and in relationship with other people. Shalom .

This is the intention of God, but the world we live in feels so different. It is full of strife. We encounter that every day in some form. We see it in the major cities of our world, and we see it in our own city. We feel it in our families and in our friendships. We experience it in ourselves. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matt. 5:9). Then James writes, “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness” (James 3:18).

Now, in a world of chaos and division, in a world of hatred and injustice, in a world where people use each other and things, it can look like the world is going to hell in a hand basket. In a world like that, the tendency for us, even as Christians, is sometimes to slide into hopelessness or hatred.

However, Psalm 120, which begins the journey of the Psalms of Ascent declares,

Even though I'm in the midst of an environment that's at odds with God, I choose to be the kind of person who does not slide into hopelessness. Neither do I slide into hatred. I set my eyes on God. I begin the journey with God. I choose to be a person aiming for the good life—the life of true shalom— in myself and for the community of God and for those beyond that sphere, so that people might be blessed through me, even as Abraham was called to be a blessing to every nation of the earth (Genesis 12:1-3).

This is peace-making, this bringing of blessing, is a mark of the journey with God from the very beginning.

Of course, the truth about intending to do something like that is we cannot create it ourselves. But there is One who can. His name is Jesus. He was spoken about by the prophet Isaiah, who described the Messiah as “the Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). When he spoke with his disciples before the suffering of the Cross, he said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27). Jesus, the Prince of Peace, can bring his peace into our lives and also bring his peace through us into the world around us.

As we think about the nature of our spiritual journey with the Psalms of Ascent, I would like to suggest four ways we can respond and make this real for us in our own lives.

First, some of us need to simply begin the journey and stop waiting for everything to get better. We should not wait for God to lift us out of the land of Kedar and Meshek, but begin with God right where we are.

Second, some of us in this place need to call out to God with honesty and brokenness. Perhaps you have been afraid to be honest with God in your life. This is the moment that can change. The journey with God is one that is marked by honesty and vulnerability. And so, perhaps the biggest step for some of us is simply to call out to God from the honesty of our lives, saying, “God, I’m in distress. I need your help. I want to begin with you.”

For others of us, God may be telling us that we need community in our lives. Perhaps that means reaching out to somebody else around you and asking, “Would you pray with me that I might be touched by God and his saving work in my life?” Even now, some of us need to reach out to others in our lives and say, “I need a group of people around me who can help me journey on the way.”

The truth is that we're not meant to do it alone. But I really believe there are some of us who have slid into hopelessness and God wants to replace that hopelessness with his peace. Maybe it's the hopelessness of your circumstances. Maybe it's the hopelessness of your health. Maybe it's the apparent hopelessness of the world or the strife in our nation. It really does not matter what form your hopelessness takes. It's time to take the hopelessness and bring it to the Cross of Christ and say, “God, would you be my peace.” It will not help us to crawl into some quiet place inside of ourselves or to hunker down somewhere in society when what we really need to do is crawl into the presence of God and let him be our hope.

Lastly, some of us have slid into the tendency of hatred toward others, and it is time to shed hatred because that is antithetical to the ways of God who wants to be our peace and, through us, shed peace upon others. Though we live in the tents of Kedar and dwell in Meshek, God wants to move us through the place of a hatred, and into the place of peace. Maybe today is the day to say,

God, I choose to let go of hatred toward myself. I choose to let go of hatred toward somebody in my family. I choose to let go of hatred toward some category of people in the world or toward some place in the world. Instead, God, I'm drawing near to you. I want you to be my peace. I want to go on the journey with you.

Let me simply say out loud that we cannot hide in our hatred. It will not protect us. Our hatred actually makes us vulnerable. But in the presence of God, we can draw near and enter the place of peace.

Wherever we are at this morning, let’s join together on the journey with God, letting the Psalms of Ascent be the songs, the prayers, the soundtrack for our journey.

Matt Erickson serves as the Senior Pastor of Eastbrook Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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7 Steps to a Closer Walk With God

When you think about climbing a mountain, what comes to mind? Do you envision breathtaking vistas from the mountaintop or breathless wheezing along the way? As different as they are, both perspectives capture aspects of the same journey. Reaching the summit requires grit and determination. Spiritual growth is no different. It demands perseverance, but the view from the top is out of this world.

No one has helped us think of the spiritual life as a journey more than a seventeenth-century English repairman named John Bunyan . Drawing only on the Bible and his own spiritual journey, Bunyan wrote Pilgrim’s Progress while imprisoned for his non-conformist preaching in 1675. Published in 1678, this allegory of the Christian’s journey to heaven remains one of the most popular religious works among English readers.

In Pilgrim’s Progress , Christian makes his way from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. The story represents a journal of his starts and stops, his ups and downs, his victories and defeats. If you have not read this classic of Christian literature, you must! Not only will you see the Christian life as a journey, but you will discover how to make it a holy and intimate one as well.

Beginning the Journey

Borrowing John Bunyan’s metaphor, let’s consider the Christian life as a walking journey—growing closer to God while journeying toward God. He is both the destination and the way at the same time (John 14:6). There are stepping stones we must use if we are going to have a closer walk with God, steps we must take to enjoy spiritual intimacy with Him. To picture those steps, consider one of America’s most beautiful settings— Grandfather Mountain near Linville, North Carolina . I’ve been privileged to speak at an annual Gospel festival held at the base of Grandfather Mountain, and it is almost as near to heaven-on-earth as one can get. The beauty is heavenly, as is the altitude—over 4,600 feet. While not as high as many mountains, Grandfather towers over the neighboring Blue Ridge peaks in that part of western North Carolina.

To get from the meadows to the top of Grandfather Mountain where the ferocious winds howl day and night through the swinging bridge, you can drive or hike a switchback trail. We’re going to hike the trail because it’s such a perfect metaphor for the steps we must take to achieve intimacy with God while journeying toward Bunyan’s Celestial City, our heavenly home.

Step One: Choose a Heavenly Destination

First, we need a DESTINATION . That’s simple—we’re at the bottom of Grandfather Mountain, and we want to reach the top. There’s no easy way to do it. It’s one step at a time over tree roots, fog-slick rocks, and time-worn footholds.

But what about the spiritual journey? John Bunyan had it right: Every person alive is born into the City of Destruction and will stay there unless he changes destinations (Romans 3:23). You can make that change by asking Jesus Christ to forgive your sins and give you the gift of eternal life , which He has promised to do (John 3:16). Intimacy with God, both now and for eternity, can be found in no other way.

Step Two: Follow God’s Map

Once we start up the mountain, we need a MAP to avoid wandering off the trail. Fortunately, on the Grandfather Mountain trail, there aren’t many ways to get lost. Your only concern is to continue climbing up. Just as there is only one way to the peak, there is only one way to heaven. And the Bible is the map that points the way.

The psalmist said, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105), and Paul said God’s Word would thoroughly equip anyone who would study it diligently (2 Timothy 3:17). God has so many blessings for those who will seek Him, blessings discovered only in His Word. You would be more likely to succeed climbing Grandfather Mountain with blinders on than journeying toward God without studying the Bible.

Step Three: Seek Direction

Because the trail to the top of Grandfather Mountain doesn’t intersect with other trails, DIRECTIONS are rarely necessary. Even so, you’ll have questions: Is there water along the way? How much further is it to the top? Is it worth it? What will we see when we get there? Experienced hikers, and especially those on their way down from the top, can provide the assurance we need.

Unlike the Grandfather Mountain trail, there are many ways to wander off course in your spiritual journey. First, your enemy, the devil, is out to make things as confusing and difficult as possible. He switches the directional signs, tells you lies, and sends you down rabbit trails at every opportunity. In addition, there are things that only your personal journey may entail—and you need guidance. Prayer is God’s ever-present means by which to seek direction and comfort when you find yourself ready to give up (Matthew 7:7; Philippians 4:6-7) . He knows when you need help and is ready to provide it as soon as you ask.

Step Four: Find Supportive People

On the Grandfather Mountain trail, ASSISTANCE is never far away. On an average day in tourist season, and usually in the off-season as well, the trail is filled with hikers. Should you sprain an ankle or scrape a shin, help will be at hand.

On your journey with God, you’ll find helping hands in the Church (Romans 12:3- 8; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31). Where you are weak or lack knowledge, someone else is strong and able to help. When you find someone slumped in discouragement by the side of the trail, God will empower you to help them. But the assumption is … you’re active in the body! Are you? If you’re not on the trail, you can’t help or be helped.

Step Five: Contemplate Beauty

SCENIC VIEWS . Now that’s what Grandfather Mountain is all about. At regular intervals on the trail, you’ll catch a break in the trees and spot a glimpse of what awaits you at the top—a 360-degree panorama that takes your breath away. The beauty of God’s creation in the mountains never disappoints.

The same is true in the spiritual journey. God’s scenic views come into view when we stop and meditate on who God is and what He has done for us. The psalmist contemplated God throughout the night (Psalm 63:6) and considered often the works of His hands (Psalm 77:12). More than anything, he meditated on the words of God, never tiring of discovering new insights into the ways of God. When was the last time you pulled off the spiritual trail, found a quiet spot, and meditated on God’s Word?

Step Six: Bring Companions

At times, hiking alone has its benefits, but you need good friends and family with you on the Grandfather Mountain trail. There are just too many things to share together: “Look at those vultures floating on the updrafts!” “Can you believe the beauty of those rhododendrons?” “Hurry! Grab the camera and capture that sunset before it’s gone!” COMPANIONSHIP is often a key ingredient in a successful trip.

Are you journeying toward heaven with a special group of friends? I hope your family is journeying with you—your spouse and children. Those are the first people you’ll want to spend eternity with, are they not? But are there others? Is there someone you could invite on the journey? The companionship found in a small group of Christian friends is the most effective way to stay on the road should you ever get bogged down (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Step Seven: Record Your Progress in a Journal

Finally, hiking the Grandfather Mountain trail will result in a million memories and mental snapshots. You need a JOURNAL to make them last—a place to put your thoughts, paste your pictures, and press those wildflowers and leaves you collected. No trip is finished until it has been recorded.

Are you keeping track of what God is revealing to you on your way to heaven? A journal will capture the mountain peaks you cross, the raging rivers you ford, and the dark valleys you tremble through. Your children and grandchildren will thank you someday if you’ll record every step of your travels with God.

I hope I’ve whetted your appetite for visiting one of my favorite parts of the country. But more than that, I hope I’ve encouraged you in your progress toward heaven. Intimacy with God, while journeying toward God, is the trip of a lifetime. Using these stepping stones will set you on the path toward making every moment as fulfilling as God intends it to be (John 10:10).

Application—Preparing for the Journey

Destination:.

Have you secured your destination through faith in Christ? If not, ask Jesus Christ to forgive your sins and to give you the gift of eternal life, which He has promised to do (John 3:16).

What blessings does God promise to those who will seek Him? What blessings have you discovered in His Word?

Directions:

In what areas of your life do you need to seek direction and comfort? Take time now to ask God for His provision and guidance.

Assistance:

In what areas are you weak or lacking knowledge? Who in the body of Christ could offer assistance? How are you using your spiritual gifts to help others?

Scenic Views:

What new insights about God have you discovered? What will you praise Him for today?

When was the last time you meditated on God’s Word? How will you incorporate that stepping stone into your walk with God?

Companionship:

What special friends are journeying toward heaven with you? Who could you invite on the journey?

How are you keeping track of what God is revealing to you on your way to heaven? Take a moment now to record any new observations God is bringing to light.

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About Dr. David Jeremiah

Dr. David Jeremiah is one of America’s most trusted Bible teachers. For more than 39 years he has helped millions deepen their understanding of the Bible through 4,552 daily Turning Point Radio releases and a daily Turning Point Television program that reaches millions of people globally. More »

Creation Care

Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Genesis 1:28

Marine litter is a huge ecological problem. Many countries’ coastlines are littered with plastic and debris, and there is an “island” of plastic more than the twice the size of Texas in the Pacific Ocean where currents have accumulated the debris. Fish become entangled in discarded fishing nets and lines, with bellies full of plastic debris they have swallowed.

Such images are in stark contrast to the pristine beauty and glory of Eden as presented in Genesis. Though mankind was given the mandate to “have dominion over” (that is, to care for) all of creation, we have not done a good job. When God’s mandates go unfulfilled on earth, God’s glory is diminished. And that mandate extends to our personal life as well. Paul writes that we belong to God and we are to glorify Him with our care and use of our body.

When you see opportunities to care for creation—nature or your own body—do so as a way of glorifying the Creator.

The creation is both a monument of God’s power, and a looking-glass in which we may see his wisdom. Thomas Watson

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:58

Paul’s letter to the people at Corinth was an exhortation to remain steadfast. The church in Corinth was an undisciplined church, and he was letting them know that even though the culture around them was in flux, their faith in Jesus Christ needed to remain focused and sure. It is true for us today also. How can we remain steadfast in our faith and avoid the pressures of this ever-changing world? By devoting time each day to the study of God’s Word.

As we read the Bible and immerse ourselves in God’s truth and character, our lives are changed—we become more like Him. God’s Word is a powerful litmus test for our souls and actions. As our lives center on God, giving priority to hearing His voice and reading His Word, we become bolder in sharing our faith.

Joshua had the confidence and courage to lead God’s people into the Promised Land because He believed in God’s promise and presence. We serve the same God who said: “And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed” (Deuteronomy 31:8).

You can place your steadfast trust in Him.

When we find a man meditating on the words of God, my friends, that man is full of boldness and is successful. Dwight L. Moody

Ready and Willing

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

A leper approached Jesus and said, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” Jesus touched the man, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed”—and he was healed (Mark 1:40-42).

That event is a beautiful example of the willingness of God. In fact, there are no instances of Jesus being asked to help or heal and Him answering, “I am not willing.” There is a place where the Bible says God is “not willing,” and that is 2 Peter 3:9. In writing about the timing of the Day of the Lord (the end of the age), Peter says God is waiting for all who will be saved to come to Him. He is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” Said another way, God is willing for any who want to be saved to come to Him (John 6:37; 7:37). The question is never whether God is willing but whether man is willing.

Have you responded to God’s willing invitation to come to Him?

God is far more willing to save sinners than sinners are to be saved. J. C. Ryle

I rejoice at Your Word as one who finds great treasure. Psalm 119:162

Earlier this year, a volunteer for a charity in Arizona was going through books donated for a sale. One was an old copy of The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. The volunteer decided the dilapidated volume wasn’t worth saving and was about to throw it away when she thumbed through it and found a hidden chamber. Someone had used a knife to cut a hole in the middle of the book. Inside was $4,000!

That’s nothing compared to the treasure you’ll find when opening the covers of the Bible. Perhaps it would help to think of it in those terms. Use your imagination to see every word of Scripture turning to gold as you read it. Think of every promise as a precious stone. See the words about Jesus in the Gospels as sparkling like diamonds. Visualize your daily Bible study time like a miser running his hands through a chest of gold.

The treasury of Scripture will enrich your mind, refocus your goals, replace your doubts, and redirect your path—but only if you read it and heed it. Start today!

To get the best use out of [the Bible] for daily life,...Give it the best and freshest, not the most tired and dull, hour of the day. M. S. Kimber in The Sunday School World , 1893

Hello Heaven!

I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, because I know that I will soon put it aside. 2 Peter 1:13-14, NIV

Peter wrote his final letter shortly before his execution. He wasn’t discouraged; he was looking forward to the future. He spoke of “looking forward to these things.” and “[looking] for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13-14).

Life is full of hardships and heaviness. We have the promises of God to help us in difficult days, and we have the Holy Spirit within us. We have a purpose for being here—to refresh the memory of others regarding the things of the Lord. But we’ll soon put aside the tent of our earthly body, and what a relief! Goodbye hardship and heaviness. Goodbye trials and troubles. Hello Jesus! Hello heaven! Hello golden streets, glorified bodies, endless days, and the fresh air of New Jerusalem!

During difficult times, the hope of eternity gives us strength. If you’re prone to worry yourself to sleep each night, turn your thoughts upward and close your eyes thinking of heaven and its eternal throne.

A tent or a cottage, why should I care? They’re building a palace for me over there. Harriet Buell, in her hymn “A Child of the King”

Overcoming Temptation

Temptation. Whether we realize it or not, it is part of our past, and it will be part of our future. The moment we resolve to stand strong and walk away is when temptation grows most intense. That is why Scripture is of paramount importance. God's Word contains the answer to resisting temptation before it's too late. Consider these verses:

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full–grown, brings forth death (James 1:13–15).

Some people wonder about the value of the Old Testament in a Christian's life. The apostle Paul addressed that question in 1 Corinthians 10:11—"Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition." To what things was Paul referring? He listed them in verses 7–10. They are idolatry, immorality, infidelity, and disloyalty.

Temptation is not sin; yielding to temptation is.

With that background, Paul exhorted believers not to make the same choices the Israelites made—not to provoke God's discipline by willfully sinning. None of us is above God's discipline if we engage in sin. We must look for and take "the way of escape" God provides in every situation where temptation is found (verse 13). To think our temptation is unique is to believe a lie. "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man" (verse 13). There are no "new" temptations in life.

The apostle James argued that if temptation becomes serious, it is because we have allowed it to do so. Our own "desires" entice us away from God and desire "gives birth to sin" (James 1:13–15). God doesn't tempt us, but He may allow temptation to enter our lives in order to give us opportunities to make obedient and mature choices.

Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, and He took the same means of escape that is available to us—obedience to God's Word (Matthew 4:1–11; Hebrews 5:8). Temptation is not sin; yielding to temptation is. There is always a righteous choice to be made if we are willing to seek it.

Victory in Him

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57

To first-century leaders in the Roman world, the imagery was familiar: A victorious Roman general returning from battle leading his soldiers and their captives into the city. Citizens lined the streets applauding while the aroma of celebratory incense filled the air. Paul uses that image to say that Christ leads His followers in a victory procession through every difficulty in life (2 Corinthians 2:14-15).

The Christian’s victory is through Christ. The victory over the world, the flesh, the devil, and sin was won by the Cross and the empty tomb. He did for us what we cannot do for ourselves. We have victory now and for eternity only because of the victory Christ won for us. Therefore, if we are to experience victory in this life, it will come only as we depend on Him. As Paul wrote in Galatians 2:20, the life we now live is the life of Christ in us as we keep our faith in Him.

If you need a victory in your life, begin every day by renewing your faith in Christ in whom all our victories are to be realized.

The spiritual battle, the loss of victory, is always in the thought-world. Francis Schaeffer

Faithful Fathers: Abraham

And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. James 2:23

We can imagine a child writing an appreciative and sentimental memoir about her “perfect father,” understanding that “perfect” was not intended to be taken literally. But how about a book titled  The Righteous Father ? The patriarch Isaac could have written that book about his father, Abraham.

Righteous doesn’t mean sinless, of course. We know that Abraham wasn’t perfect. But he did manifest some qualities that every father should emulate. First, he believed the promises of God about the future God had planned for him (Hebrews 11:8-12). And when he believed God, “[God] accounted it to [Abraham] for righteousness” (Genesis 15:6). Again, not perfect or sinless, but in a right standing with God. Second, as a result of Abraham’s trust in God, he became a “friend of God” (Isaiah 41:8). Could any father set a more worthy example to his children or grandchildren than that of being friends with God? Living in right standing with God? That means communing with Him, walking with Him, living for Him, and above all, trusting Him and His promises.

Follow Abraham’s example as a faithful father by deepening your friendship with God.

Friendship is the marriage of affections. Thomas Watson

Modern Idolatry

Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Colossians 3:5

Colossians 3:1 tells us to “seek those things which are above, where Christ is.” In verse 5 we’re told to put to death the passions that come from below—"fornication, uncleanness, passion, and evil desire.” Then the Lord added the sin of greed or covetousness to the list, calling it idolatry.

That verse changes our view of idolatry. It’s not just bowing down to a small carved statue or a pagan worshiper offering incense at a shrine to Buddha. It’s the act of becoming too attached to the material things of the world—falling more in love with the things on earth than on things in heaven.

This has nothing to do with how much money you do or don’t have—a poverty-stricken person can covet just as much as a billionaire. It has everything to do with what’s at the center of our affections. Is it Christ? Is it things above? Or is it things below?

Make sure Christ is at the center of your life and that your love for Him eclipses everything else!

You don’t have to go to heathen lands today to find false gods. America is full of them…. Whatever you love more than God is your idol. D. L. Moody

New Beginnings: Ezekiel

In my thirtieth year, in the fourth month on the fifth day, while I was among the exiles by the Kebar River, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God. Ezekiel 1:1, NIV

We often need fresh starts after enduring bitter disappointments. As a young man, Ezekiel had dedicated himself to be a priest. He was from a priestly family, and he undoubtedly looked forward to serving God in Jerusalem’s temple. Priests began their temple duty at the age of thirty. But when he was about twenty-five, Ezekiel was seized and taken to Babylon, and he never saw the temple again. When his thirtieth birthday came, he must have struggled with questions of “why” and “if only.”

That’s just when God appeared to him as he was among the exiles by the Kebar River. Ezekiel looked up and saw remarkable visions of God—the throne of God surrounded by angelic beings. Amid the strange and apocalyptic vision described in Ezekiel 1, God called the thirty-year-old exile to be a powerful prophet.

Oh, to see the glory of the Lord while in the midst of the disappointments in life. When we think life has collapsed around us, the God of glory appears above us. God always has a plan, and our false starts become His fresh starts.

Ezekiel is the prophet of the glory of the Lord…. Ezekiel looked beyond the sufferings of Christ to the glory that should follow. J. Vernon McGee

The Conspicuous Hand

The Lord your God cares. Deuteronomy 11:12

In a letter to Brigadier General Thomas Nelson, George Washington marveled at how God’s hand had protected him and given success to the cause of liberty: “The hand of Providence has been so conspicuous in all this, that he must be worse than an infidel that lacks faith, and… has not gratitude enough to acknowledge his obligations.”

In the middle of life’s battles, we’re tempted to question God’s ordering of our circumstances, but every follower of Christ can look back and see the conspicuous hand of God’s Providence. He is committed to caring for us, watching over us, and giving us strength when we are within His will.

Moses reminded the Israelites that God was taking them into a land of hills and valleys, of water and streams, “a land for which the Lord your God cares; the eyes of the Lord your God are always on it, from the beginning of the year to the very end of the year” (Deuteronomy 11:11-12).

That’s the way He cares for us too—every day, all year long, always.

[The Lord] loves, and cares, and sympathizes, and understands, and seeks, and saves, and forgives, and helps, and encourages, and walks by our side… taking care of us in life when we can’t take care of ourselves. W. A. Criswell

God of Second Chances

Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time, saying, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and preach to it the message that I tell you.” Jonah 3:1-2

It was not uncommon in the Old Testament for “the word of the Lord” to come to God’s prophets again and again. It happened to Samuel, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Haggai, Zechariah, and others. And it also happened to Jonah: The word of the Lord came to Jonah the first time (Jonah 1:1) and then the second time (Jonah 3:1). With the other prophets, the “second time” meant additional prophetic utterances they were to deliver. But with Jonah, the “second time” was because Jonah had failed to speak God’s word the first time. Jonah was a disobedient prophet.

God commissioned Jonah to go east to Assyria, to the capital of Nineveh and deliver a message of judgment. But Jonah fled west toward Spain because he feared the Assyrians. You know the story—Jonah ended up in the sea where he was swallowed by a great fish. Jonah repented and called on the Lord and was delivered. God gave him a second chance.

Don’t let your past keep you from trusting God for a second (or third, or fourth) chance. The God of grace loves to forgive.

Forgiveness is to be set loose from sins. G. Campbell Morgan

All You Need Is Love: Forgiveness

When Jesus saw [the friends’] faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.” Mark 2:5

The hardest part of forgiving another person is  acting like the offense never occurred . But that is what forgiving someone means—restoring relationships to the status they enjoyed before the offense took place. It’s one thing to say, “I forgive you,” but it’s another to act like all the effects of an offense are completely erased. After all, according to Paul in 1 Corinthians 13, love is known by its actions more than its words.

Jesus faced this dilemma when He healed a paralytic man. When He told the man that his sins were forgiven (and by extension, he was healed), He was criticized. He was accused of blaspheming by saying He had the authority to forgive sins—something only God can do. So, Jesus proved He had the authority to say, “I forgive you,” by doing something harder. He healed the man’s paralysis. After all, as Jesus explained, actions speak louder than words (Mark 2:8-11).

We cannot go through life without being hurt by others, so we should learn to forgive. Even more, we should practice demonstrating our forgiveness by our acts of lovingkindness. Look for opportunities to do both.

A Whole Person

In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility. Titus 2:7

In mathematics two of the basic kinds of numbers are integers and fractions: 2, 100, and 56 are integers, while ½, ¼, and 2.5 are fractions. Integers , from a Latin root meaning “whole” or “entire.” The word integrity comes from the same root; a person with integrity cannot be divided in beliefs or morality based on varying circumstances.

When the apostle Paul wrote to his young pastoral protégé, Timothy, he told him to show “integrity” in doctrine, to be incorruptible in belief and in actions. Paul wanted Timothy to hold fast to the truth of God, not allowing himself to be divided. A person of integrity obeys the whole counsel of God every day, in every circumstance. Daniel’s three friends in Babylon demonstrated integrity when they were threatened with being burned alive (Daniel 3:16-18). They told the king they would not divide their allegiance, that they would maintain their faith in God and His promises. That is integrity.

Are you a whole person or a fractioned person today? If your beliefs, and therefore your actions, have become divided, gather them back together as you commit to God and His Word.

Integrity of heart is indispensable. John Calvin

Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Revelation 21:1

A great misconception carried by many Christians has to do with the location of heaven. The word heaven itself implies that our eternal destiny is somewhere “up there” in the heavens. But the Bible says our eternal destiny is earthly, not heavenly. As Peter wrote, we look for a “new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13).

In his vision of the future, the apostle John saw that “new heaven and a new earth,” our new domain being pictured as the New Jerusalem “coming down out of heaven from God” (Revelation 21:1-2). Somehow, at the end of the age, when Christ has returned to reign and inaugurate the eternal state, this earth will be renovated and a new earth will be the result—a new earth full of righteousness in which pain and sorrow will be absent. The beautiful imagery of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21 lets us know that the new earth will be a place that reflects the glory of God throughout.

Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for you if you belong to Him (John 14:1-4). The New Jerusalem, on the new earth, is that place.

Let thy hope of heaven master thy fear of death. William Gurnall

The Need for Prayer

Now it came to pass in those days that [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. Luke 6:12

Officially, church historians recognize seven ecumenical church councils held between A.D. 325 and A.D. 787. The first, the First Council of Nicaea, met to agree on the nature of Jesus of Nazareth as both Son of God and Son of Man, as both fully divine and fully human.

The humanity of Christ, while at the same time divine, is hard to understand. But thankfully, Scripture gives us illustrations: Like us, Jesus suffered, experienced hunger, required sleep, ate food, and had limits on His knowledge (Mark 13:32). One of the most striking and helpful illustrations of Jesus’ humanity was His prayer life. We might think that, if Jesus was truly divine, He would have had no need to pray for knowledge, guidance, or help. Yet He did, following the example of godly men like Daniel in Babylon (Daniel 2:16-18). Jesus repeatedly said that He only did what the Father showed Him to do (John 5:19), and prayer was His means.

If Jesus, the Son of God, needed to go to His Father in prayer for strengthening and guidance, how much more do we (Psalm 32:6)?

Prayer and a holy life are one. E. M. Bounds

What Is Humility?

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5, NIV

What is humility? Is it the opposite of pride? If pride expands one’s importance, does humility deflate one’s importance? That’s the view given by most English dictionaries—a deemphasis on one’s own importance. But what is the biblical view of humility

If someone compliments you on a job well done, do you refuse to take credit or receive their compliment? Or do you graciously say, “Thank you,” in a spirit of genuine appreciation and humility? In Romans 12:3 Paul exhorts the believers not to think of themselves pridefully but rather to think of themselves “soberly”—that is, realistically or accurately. Paul’s topic is the grace given by God to each Christian to serve in the Body of Christ. We should neither overestimate the gift of God’s grace or underestimate it. Rather, we should think of it soberly and realistically—humbly—and minister accordingly. To think less of God’s gift would be to devalue it; to think realistically about it allows one to serve humbly.

How do you view yourself? With pride? With false humility? Or soberly and realistically according to the grace of God in your life?

A really humble man…will not be thinking about humility, he will not be thinking about himself at all. C. S. Lewis

The Power of Confession

For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer. Psalm 32:4

California is a dry state that needs water to be transported over many miles to population and agricultural centers. Snowfall in the winter and melting snow in the spring are critical factors in replenishing shrinking reservoirs. In periods of modern droughts, aerial photographs document the receding water levels in reservoirs around the state—shorelines growing wider and drier as water levels fall.

Such is the picture David paints with his words in Psalm 32—a drought of spiritual vitality brought on by his own sin. When he failed to confess his sin to God, his “bones grew old” and he groaned “all the day long” (verse 3). It was like his soul was being evaporated by the heat of his own guilt and shame. But then the rains of grace came and David confessed his sin and God forgave him (verse 5). And he encouraged his readers not to make the same mistake he had made (verses 9-10).

Confession and repentance reveal the access to restoration. Hiding sin does not remove it from God’s sight; but when we seek God’s forgiveness, the refreshing living water from the Father is poured out on us and we are restored—that is the power of confession.

The way to cover our sin is to uncover it by confession. Richard Sibbes

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Our Journey with God

How do I know God is really with me on my journey to find a home with him?

Will you help us finish strong?

Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away (Genesis 5:24).

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:9-10).

• In the story of Jesus — Jesus is Immanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:23).
• In authentic relationship with other believers — Jesus, as Immanuel, joins us in our gathering together (Matthew 18:20).
• In compassionate care of those in need — Jesus is Immanuel that we see in those to whom we give loving care (Matthew 25:40).
• In leaving the comfort of our culture to walk along beside others to help them learn to journey with God, and to live the way of Jesus — Jesus, as Immanuel, goes with us always (Matthew 28:18-20).

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6 Stages of the Journey of Faith and Why You Need to Know Yours

I love following trails. The less traversed the better. The woods of North Idaho, the lake trails of Minnesota, the four-wheeler paths of Alaska, and the jungle routes of Northern Thailand are my happy places. If you tell me there’s a path to follow my feet are almost compulsively drawn there.

This hasn’t always been the same source of joy for those who love me as it has been for me. Take that one time in Israel, for example. I was seventeen (and perfectly capable of taking care of myself, thank-you-very-much) when our tour bus stopped in a quiet parking lot. We were at The Gates of Hell. I’m not kidding. This was the physical location where Jesus stood with His disciples when Peter proclaimed that He was the Son of God and Jesus replied, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” ( Matthew 16:18 )

It was a wild declaration in a wild place: a place where a pagan temple once stood and children were sacrificed at the gates of hell. Jesus stomped all over that playground of idolatry with the feet of the Living God. The gates of hell will not prevail… 

Just sit with that thought for a moment.

After being introduced to the significance of the place, I heard our tour guide say, “We’ll gather back on the bus in thirty minutes. There’s a trail over there that leads to a stream and the bathrooms are by the shop in the parking lot.” Now, this is apparently not what everyone else, including my parents, heard. I heard “go explore” while they heard “head for the bus.”

However, there was that trail, and without a second thought, I was off.

A blonde teenager.

At the GATES OF HELL.

Well, we all have those moments when we’re not so smart, right?

I remember it so clearly: the meandering dirt path, the sunlight through the trees, the dancing brooke, the sweet conversation I had with Jesus. I was in my happy place.

I didn’t stay long, trying to be mindful of the time, and as I emerged from the woods onto the open trail, a man approached me. He was walking briskly and looked amused when he saw me. He said something into his radio, turned around, and motioned for me to follow him quickly. 

We jogged back up the path and when the bus came into view he simply pointed.

Everyone was on it. Waiting for me. Praying I hadn’t been kidnapped for ransom. My parents were thrilled that I was fine, and I was mortified.

Who knew a trail could cause so much trouble? I try to be a bit wiser now, but I still maintain that a trail is an invitation that should not be passed up. It’s leading somewhere. Maybe to a waterfall, a mountain top, a camping spot, or a placid lake, but if there’s a trail there it’s usually because people have trod that path before in search of the something that lies beyond the asphalt and concrete.

GROWTH AS A CHRISTIAN

So it is with the Christian life. We are all on a journey to the heart of God. We know it all starts with the exchange of Christ’s life for our own and it ends in the glorious eternity of dwelling with God in heaven, but what of the in-between? This messy, mucky, mixed-up middle ground? Is there sense or order to our development as Christ-followers?

The Bible speaks often of growth and development. As believers we move from milk to meat ( Hebrews 5:13-14 ), maturing from receivers of simple truths to teachers of the Word, and Paul regularly prays for the church to grow in wisdom and understanding so they (we) can bear fruit ( Colossians 1:3-11 ). Even the meta-story across Scripture of God’s plan and process through Creation, Fall, and Redemption paints the idea of movement through stages.

Our great Creator loves order. I think He even loves a good story with a beginning, middle, and end, and all the plot twists in between.

And it just makes so much sense to me as I see countless parallels between our lives lived in the body and our lives lived in the spirit. Parenting would be chaotic at best if we couldn’t foresee the predictable stages our children would progress through: infants to toddlers to children to adolescents to young adults. Can you imagine working on potty training if you had no hope that it was only for a season?

The Christian life would be uncertain at best if we had no hope of future glory and the sanctification process along the way. We need markers of development to assure us that we are making progress and that we are indeed on the same path of faith our spiritual role-models walked. Especially when we hit that really gnarly bump in the middle (more on that in a bit).

THE 6 STAGES OF THE JOURNEY OF FAITH

While what I’m about to present to you isn’t specific biblical truth, I do believe it is spiritual wisdom. Saints throughout the ages have looked for ways to understand the journey of faith, including John of the Cross and Bernard of Clairvaux. More recently The Critical Journey: Stages in the Life of Faith by Janet Hagberg and Robert Guelich has provided helpful commentary on the predictable path we find ourselves on as we walk toward Christ-likeness.

Here is Janet’s comprehensive description and recent podcast if you want to dig deeper.

For our purposes, I’ve simplified their model a bit. And I really felt that it needed a map, of sorts. So here it is, in the best stick-figure glory I could muster:

As with any model, it’s not perfect, and we don’t always fit neatly into the categories, but much like how personality profiles can help us understand ourselves and operate with greater understanding toward others, this spiritual-life profile can help us navigate the work of God in our lives and move forward with greater trust and hope.

STAGE ONE: THE SEARCH FOR GOD

We recognize our need for a savior and accept His invitation to new life. This is the point of belief, of being born-again.

STAGE TWO: THE LIFE OF DISCIPLESHIP

We are hungry to learn everything we can about God and what His truth means for our lives. We want to belong and will search for a community of faith where we are fed from the Word.

STAGE THREE: THE PRODUCTIVE LIFE

We want to give back to the God who gave everything for us. We start looking for ways to share our faith and do good deeds. We ask if we have a personal calling from the Lord and take a step of faith to pursue it (i.e. taking a role in the church, starting a home Bible study, helping a neighbor in need, focusing your craft more on spiritual matters, becoming a pastor or missionary, viewing parenting as discipleship).

STAGE FOUR: THE WALL AND THE WILDERNESS

Often triggered by some form of suffering, we are suddenly made aware that what we are doing for God isn’t working anymore. We might feel burnt out from all our activity in the previous stage or we might be frustrated that we’re not seeing transformation in our own lives or the lives of those we are trying to reach. We often revert to more learning to become better equipped or redouble our efforts of service to hopefully see results. But eventually, we still end up at the wall with the choice to keep on looping backwards in the journey or to surrender to a major work of the Spirit in our lives.

STAGE FIVE: THE JOURNEY INWARD

We accept that deep change is necessary and we struggle through a season of deconstruction as God works with us to expose idols and egos and His heart in pursuit of our own. We begin to reconstruct our relationship with God based on intimacy, and a new sense of self-realization leads to more profound God-realization.

STAGE SIX: THE JOURNEY UPWARD AND OUTWARD

We learn to live out the greatest commandment: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind; and from that life of God-love the second commandment flows: Love your neighbor as yourself. ( Matthew 22:37-39 ) We may still revisit times of testing and refining in the wilderness, but hope is secure and our hearts are fully surrendered.

WHERE ARE YOU ON THE JOURNEY?

Can you see your spiritual life at one of the points on this map? The first time it was introduced to me at a Spiritual Director’s training, I felt incredibly relieved, perhaps like a puberty-stricken girl who was finally told that armpit hair was normal. I talked about it for days to anyone that would listen. Did you know that we have stages of spiritual development just like physical development? Have you ever heard that hitting the wall is a normal and even necessary part of Christian growth? My own story suddenly makes so much sense now! Oh yeah, I totally geek out over stuff like that. 

But even if you don’t get as excited about it as I was, I hope that you find it encouraging to know that we are all on this journey together . It’s a beautiful path, and not as dark or mysterious as you once thought. No, it’s not going to be easy, but the best things rarely are. 

So keep pressing on, dear one. Further up. Further in.

Try writing down the bullet points of your own faith journey. Where do they fall on this faith map? What is God saying to you about the stage you are in right now?

My own journey through the wilderness and how I made it over the wall is recorded in my book, Colliding with the Call: When Following God Takes You to the Wilderness .

Related posts

Water from the Rock

A Wilderness Excursion Through the Bible: Part 2 – Waiting

Persistent Faith in the Waiting

The “map” of the journey of faith is simply profound and I so appreciate the sharing of your own experience to illustrate the concepts. As usual, your creativity and masterful articulation impress the reader, yet you are careful to direct our attention to Jesus as the Center and Focus of our lives and journeys.

Thank you, Debi. I’m humbled by such gracious words. As long as I keep pointing people to Jesus I’m doing okay!

This comment probably won’t add anything of spiritual virtue to your well written article, but it might help your readers to understand the depth of worry for those of us that were on the bus worried sick about that beautiful, young blond girl that had gone missing when we were visiting “The Gates of Hell”. Our visit to Israel was in the fall of 2000 and the Oslo Accord had just been broken. The President of the U.S. put out a travel advisory not to travel to Israel. My parents (Corella’s grandparents) pleaded with us to cancel our plans to go to Israel. Obviously we did not heed their advise and went anyway. So when Corella, who had always been very punctual and methodical about following instructions did not return to the bus on time, it was not much of a leap to jump to the worst conclusion. Praise God that the “lost” was found and “The Gates of Hell” did not prevail!!!

I love you, Mom. Thanks for taking me to Israel and for praying over me then as you still do now!

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25 Bible Verses About Journey (With Commentary)

Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, highs and lows, but through it all, the Bible offers guidance and companionship for the road ahead.

Join us as we explore the verses that speak to the journey of life, offering wisdom and encouragement for navigating its challenges, seizing its opportunities, and embracing the adventure of faith with courage and hope.

Also Read: Bible Verses About Our Purpose

Bible Verses About Journey

Genesis 12:1.

The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.”

This verse marks the beginning of Abram’s journey of faith when God called him to leave everything behind and go to a land that He would reveal to him. It highlights the importance of obedience and trust in God’s guidance, even when the destination is unknown. The journey of faith often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown, trusting that God will lead us to where He wants us to be.

Exodus 13:21

By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night.

During the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, God provided them with His presence through a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. This verse illustrates God’s constant guidance and provision for His people on their journey. It reminds us that God is not only with us in our journey but also goes before us, leading the way and illuminating our path.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

This well-known verse from Psalm 23 serves as a reminder that God is with us even in the most challenging and difficult times of our journey. It reassures us that we need not fear because His presence and His guidance bring comfort and assurance. No matter how dark the valley may be, we can find solace in the fact that God is beside us, protecting, guiding, and comforting us.

Proverbs 16:9

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

This verse emphasizes the sovereignty of God in guiding our journeys. While we may make plans and set our own course, it is ultimately the Lord who directs our steps. It teaches us to trust in God’s wisdom and guidance, allowing Him to lead us on the right path. Our journeys may not always go according to our plans, but we can have confidence that God’s plan is better and His steps will ultimately lead us to where He wants us to be.

Isaiah 40:31

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

This verse reminds us that on our journey, our strength does not come from our own efforts but from our hope in the Lord. When we place our trust in Him, He renews our strength and empowers us to persevere. It encourages us to continue walking, running, and soaring in faith, knowing that with God’s help, we will not grow weary or faint.

Matthew 28:19-20

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

Known as the Great Commission, these verses highlight the mission and journey that Jesus has entrusted to His followers. He commands them to go and make disciples, baptizing them and teaching them to follow His teachings. The assurance of His presence accompanies this command, assuring that He will be with them every step of the way. These verses remind us of the important role we have in spreading the Gospel and the certainty of Christ’s continual presence with us on this journey.

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

These words of Jesus express the high cost and commitment of following Him. It calls for a daily surrender of our own desires and self-centeredness, taking up our cross and faithfully following Him. This verse challenges us to examine our motives and priorities in our journey of discipleship, prompting us to assess whether we are truly willing to deny ourselves and walk in obedience to Christ’s teachings.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

This powerful statement by Jesus reminds us that He is not only our guide on this journey but also the means by which we can reach the destination – eternal life with the Father. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. He is the source of salvation and the path we must follow. This verse underscores the exclusivity of Jesus as the only path to God and challenges us to place our faith in Him alone as we navigate our journey of faith.

Romans 8:28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

This verse offers encouragement and assurance that even in the midst of our journey’s challenges and trials, God is working for our good. It reminds us that our journey is not haphazard, but rather guided by God’s purpose. Even when we don’t understand the reasons behind our circumstances, we can trust that God is at work, using all things for our ultimate benefit and His greater plan.

2 Corinthians 5:7

For we live by faith, not by sight.

This verse encapsulates the perspective we should adopt as we navigate our journey of faith. It calls us to live by faith, trusting in God’s promises and guidance, even when we cannot see the outcomes or understand the path ahead. Our journey of faith requires us to step out in trust and rely on the unseen, knowing that our faith in God’s goodness and faithfulness will sustain us along the way.

Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

These verses highlight the qualities that should be evident in our lives as we journey with the Holy Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit serves as a roadmap, guiding us towards a life marked by love, joy, peace, and other virtues. It reminds us that our journey of faith should result in a transformation of character, as we yield to the work of the Spirit within us.

Ephesians 2:10

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

This verse emphasizes the purpose and intention behind our journey of faith. We are not aimlessly wandering, but rather God’s handiwork, created with a specific purpose. Our journey is not only about personal transformation but also about participating in the good works that God has prepared for us. It reminds us that our lives have significance and that God has uniquely equipped us to make a positive impact in the world.

Philippians 1:6

Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

This verse reassures us that our journey of faith is not a one-time event but a lifelong process. God, who initiated the work of transformation within us, will continue to work in and through us until the day of Christ’s return. It offers hope and encouragement, knowing that God’s work in us is not dependent on our own strength or capabilities but on His faithfulness and power.

Colossians 3:2-3

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.

These verses remind us of the proper focus and mindset we should have on our journey of faith. Our minds should be set on heavenly things, not consumed by earthly concerns. They invite us to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our true life is found in Christ and our identity is hidden with Him. It challenges us to detach ourselves from the temporary and fix our gaze on the eternal, seeking to align our desires and priorities with God’s kingdom purposes.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

This verse provides a succinct definition of faith, which is a foundational aspect of our journey of faith. It describes faith as having confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we cannot see. Our journey with God is a journey of faith, requiring trust and belief in His promises and unseen realities. It challenges us to cultivate and strengthen our faith as we continue to walk with Him, knowing that our faith has the power to move mountains and bring about God’s purposes in our lives.

James 1:2-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

These verses offer a perspective shift on our journey, encouraging us to consider trials and challenges as an opportunity for growth and maturation. While our natural inclination may be to avoid difficulties, this passage teaches us that the testing of our faith produces perseverance, which leads to maturity and completeness. It reminds us that our journey will have its share of trials, but by embracing them with joy and endurance, we allow God to refine us and make us more like Christ.

1 Peter 2:21

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

This verse calls us to follow in the footsteps of Christ, our ultimate example, who suffered for us. It reminds us that our journey of faith may entail suffering and hardships, but they are an essential part of our calling. Just as Christ’s suffering had a purpose, so too can our suffering bring about God’s redemptive work in and through us. It challenges us to embrace the example set by Christ and to faithfully walk in His footsteps, even when the path is difficult.

2 Peter 1:5-7

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.

These verses outline a progression of virtues that should characterize our journey of faith. It begins with faith as the foundation and calls us to supplement it with goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love. This passage challenges us to cultivate and develop these qualities in our lives as we continue to walk with God, ultimately leading to a life that reflects the image of Christ.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

This verse emphasizes the importance of walking in the light, which means living in righteousness and aligning our lives with God’s truth. It promises fellowship with one another and the purifying power of Jesus’ blood for those who walk in the light. It encourages us to examine our lives and strive for holiness, not only for our own benefit but also for the sake of our relationships with others and our communion with God.

Revelation 21:2-4

I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

These verses offer a glimpse of the ultimate destination of our journey of faith – the new Jerusalem, where God’s dwelling place will be among His people. It describes a future reality characterized by the absence of sorrow, pain, and death. This vision brings hope and encouragement, reminding us that our journey is ultimately leading us to an eternal, glorious existence in the presence of God. It serves as a reminder to persevere, knowing that the trials and struggles of our present journey are temporary in light of the eternal joy that awaits us.

What Does the Bible Say About Journey?

In the Bible, the concept of journey is often used to symbolize the Christian life. Our journey begins when we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, and it continues as we walk with Him daily.

One of the most famous journeys in the Bible is the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. This journey is a powerful illustration of how God leads and provides for His people as they walk in obedience to Him. Their journey was not always easy, but God was faithful to them every step of the way.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently speaks of the Christian life as a journey. He encourages us to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called” (Ephesians 4:1) and to “run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). This reminds us that the Christian life is not a sprint but a marathon, and we are to persevere and remain steadfast in our faith.

Jesus Himself also spoke about the journey of following Him. He said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), emphasizing that He is the one who leads us on this journey. As we follow Him, He promises to be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).

Our journey as Christians is a process of growth and transformation. We are called to continually press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14). Through the Holy Spirit, we are being sanctified and refined as we journey closer to God and become more like His Son, Jesus Christ.

As we journey through life, we are also called to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19) and to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others along the way. Our journey is not just for our own benefit, but also for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

In conclusion, the Bible portrays the Christian life as a journey filled with purpose, challenges, and blessings. We are called to walk in faith, obedience, and perseverance, knowing that God is with us every step of the way. Our ultimate goal is to reach our heavenly home, where we will dwell with the Lord forever.

Ministry Answers

Walking with God: Unveiling Verses about Spiritual Journey

The divine path: exploring the journey of faith.

The journey of faith is a profound and transformative experience that takes us on a path of self-discovery and spiritual growth. It is a journey where we embark on a quest to understand our purpose, seek enlightenment, and connect with the divine.

As we navigate the twists and turns of this divine path, we encounter moments of doubt and uncertainty, but also moments of profound peace and joy. This journey calls us to step outside of our comfort zones, to challenge our preconceived notions and beliefs, and to fully surrender ourselves to a higher power. It is a journey of exploration, where we delve into the depths of our souls and open our hearts to receive divine guidance and wisdom. Along this path, we may stumble and fall, but the beauty lies in the fact that we have the opportunity to get back up, learn from our mistakes, and continue on this journey of faith, stronger and wiser than before.

Finding Strength in Scripture: Nurturing Your Spiritual Walk

Scripture holds immense power in nurturing and strengthening our spiritual walk. As we immerse ourselves in the pages of the Bible, we encounter timeless wisdom that guides, comforts, and encourages us. Each verse, each story, and each word has the potential to transform our hearts and minds, providing us with the strength we need to navigate the challenges of life.

When we make a habit of reading and studying Scripture, we open ourselves up to the divine revelation that unfolds within its pages. The words of the Bible are not mere ink on paper; they are living and active, breathing life into our souls. As we meditate on these sacred writings, we tap into a source of divine guidance and wisdom that surpasses our limited human understanding. Through the power of Scripture, we find strength and solace, uncovering truths that ignite our faith and lead us closer to God. • Scripture provides timeless wisdom that guides, comforts, and encourages us • Each verse, story, and word has the potential to transform our hearts and minds • Reading and studying Scripture opens us up to divine revelation • The words of the Bible are living and active, breathing life into our souls • Meditating on sacred writings taps into a source of divine guidance and wisdom • Scripture helps us find strength and solace in times of need • Uncovering truths in Scripture ignites our faith and brings us closer to God.

Embracing God’s Guidance: Seeking His Will in Your Journey

Human life is often filled with choices and decisions that shape our paths and determine our destinies. In the midst of this journey, embracing God’s guidance becomes paramount as we seek His will in every step we take. The process of seeking God’s will involves a deep surrender of our own desires and a humble submission to His perfect plan for our lives. It is a journey of faith, one that requires patience and trust, knowing that God’s wisdom far exceeds our own.

When we embrace God’s guidance, we acknowledge that He holds the ultimate blueprint for our lives. It requires us to align our hearts and minds with His purpose, allowing His voice to direct our steps. Seeking His will means being attentive to His leading through prayer, Scripture, and the prompting of the Holy Spirit. It is a continual process of seeking divine wisdom and discernment in the choices we make, from the big decisions that shape the course of our lives to the small ones that shape our character. Embracing God’s guidance is an act of faith that transforms our perspective and redirects our path, leading us to experience the beauty and fulfillment of walking in His will.

Overcoming Obstacles: Trusting God in Difficult Times

When faced with difficult times, it is common to feel overwhelmed and uncertain. However, by placing our trust in God, we can find the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Trusting in His wisdom and guidance allows us to navigate through the challenges of life with a sense of peace and assurance.

One important aspect of trusting God in difficult times is maintaining a steadfast faith. Rather than giving in to doubt and fear, we can choose to hold on to the belief that God is with us every step of the way. This faith enables us to see beyond our current circumstances and find hope in His promises. By leaning on His strength, we can persevere through the toughest of times, knowing that He is working all things together for our good.

Cultivating a Heart of Worship: Drawing Closer to God

Cultivating a heart of worship is a transformative journey that deepens our connection with God. It is not limited to singing hymns or attending church services, but rather encompasses a lifestyle of reverence and surrender. In the process of drawing closer to God, our focus shifts from ourselves towards Him, and we become fully aware of His awesomeness and sovereignty. By intentionally setting apart time for personal devotion and reflection, we create a sacred space where we can commune with the Divine. It is in these intentional moments that we encounter God’s presence, experiencing His love, peace, and guidance in profound ways.

Worship is not solely about singing and praising. It is an attitude of the heart that permeates every aspect of our lives. As we cultivate a heart of worship, we learn to align our thoughts, desires, and actions with God’s will. Our daily routines, relationships, and even mundane tasks become opportunities to honor and glorify Him. We find joy and fulfillment in serving others and seeking ways to bring God’s kingdom values to the world around us. Through worship, we discover a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in our lives, as we surrender ourselves to God’s plans and invite His transformative power to work in and through us.

The Power of Prayer: Deepening Your Connection with the Divine

Prayer is a powerful practice that allows us to deepen our connection with the divine. It is a sacred conversation between ourselves and God, where we can pour out our hearts, seek guidance, and find solace in times of need. Through prayer, we are able to express our gratitude, ask for forgiveness, and surrender our worries and fears to a higher power. It is a way for us to communicate with God and invite His presence into our lives.

When we engage in prayer, it is important to approach it with sincerity and humility. It is not just a mundane task, but a spiritual discipline that can transform our lives. By setting aside time to connect with God through prayer, we are opening ourselves up to His guidance, love, and grace. It is in this sacred space that we can find comfort, peace, and clarity amidst the chaos of life. Through the power of prayer, we are able to align ourselves with God’s will and experience a deep sense of connection with the divine.

Living a Life of Purpose: Discovering Your Calling in Christ

Living a life of purpose is a deeply fulfilling and meaningful endeavor for many individuals. It involves discovering one’s calling in Christ and aligning one’s actions and decisions with God’s will. When we find our calling, we experience a sense of direction, fulfillment, and joy that can only come from a divine source.

Discovering our calling in Christ requires us to listen attentively to God’s voice and seek His guidance. It often involves a process of self-reflection, prayer, and surrendering to God’s plan. As we delve deeper into our relationship with Christ, we begin to understand our unique gifts, talents, and passions that can be used to serve others and bring glory to God. When we live in alignment with our calling, we live with a sense of urgency to fulfill the purpose for which we were created, making a positive impact on the world around us.

Building Spiritual Resilience: Facing Challenges with Faith

Facing challenges is an inevitable part of life, and building spiritual resilience is a crucial aspect of navigating through these difficult times. When we encounter obstacles, it can be tempting to lose faith and become consumed by fear and doubt. However, by anchoring ourselves in our faith, we can cultivate the strength and perseverance needed to overcome these challenges.

Building spiritual resilience requires cultivating a deep trust in God’s plan and his unwavering presence in our lives. It is about recognizing that although trials may shake us, they do not define us. Instead, they serve as opportunities for growth and for deepening our connection with God. By leaning on our faith during times of adversity, we can tap into a wellspring of hope and find solace knowing that we are not alone in our struggles. This resilience empowers us to face challenges head-on, confident in knowing that God is guiding us every step of the way.

Growing in Spiritual Maturity: Nurturing Your Relationship with God

As we journey through life, it is natural for our relationship with God to evolve and deepen over time. Growing in spiritual maturity requires intentional effort and a desire to nurture our connection with the divine. One way to do this is by spending time in prayer and meditation, allowing ourselves to become more attuned to God’s presence and guidance in our lives. Through regular and sincere communication with the divine, we can develop a deeper understanding of His will and align our actions with His purpose.

Another vital aspect of nurturing our relationship with God is through the study and contemplation of scripture. The Bible serves as a roadmap for our spiritual growth, offering timeless wisdom and guidance for navigating life’s challenges. By regularly immersing ourselves in the words of scripture, we gain insights and encouragement that can shape and transform our lives. As we allow the truths contained within the pages of the Bible to permeate our hearts and minds, we begin to see the world through a spiritual lens, and our actions align more closely with God’s desires for us.

The Blessings of Walking with God: Experiencing His Presence in Everyday Life

Walking with God and experiencing His presence in everyday life brings an abundance of blessings. It is in these intimate moments of connection with the Divine that we find solace, strength, and guidance. Through this spiritual journey, we discover that God’s presence is not confined to the walls of a church or limited to certain moments in our lives. Instead, it becomes a constant companion that fills every aspect of our being.

One of the blessings of walking with God is the deep sense of peace that surpasses all understanding. In the midst of life’s chaos and uncertainty, we find comfort in knowing that we are not alone. God’s presence brings a calm reassurance, reminding us that He is in control and that His plans for us are good. Through the practice of faith, we develop a trust in His timing and His ways, allowing us to let go of worry and anxiety. As we cultivate this attitude of surrender, we experience the freeing power of God’s peace, which guides and guards our hearts in every situation.

What does it mean to walk with God?

Walking with God means having a close, personal relationship with Him and striving to live according to His will.

How can I experience God’s presence in everyday life?

By seeking His presence through prayer, studying His word, and being aware of His guidance in your daily activities, you can experience His presence in your everyday life.

How can I nurture my spiritual walk through Scripture?

Nurturing your spiritual walk through Scripture involves regularly reading and studying the Bible, meditating on its teachings, and applying them to your life.

How can I seek God’s guidance in my journey?

You can seek God’s guidance by praying for His wisdom and direction, listening for His voice through His word and the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and being open to His leading.

How can I trust God in difficult times?

Trusting God in difficult times requires having faith in His goodness, sovereignty, and love. It involves surrendering your fears and worries to Him and relying on His strength and provision.

How can I draw closer to God through worship?

You can draw closer to God through worship by praising and honoring Him with a grateful heart, seeking His presence through music, prayer, and reflection, and by living a life that reflects His character.

How can prayer deepen my connection with the Divine?

Prayer deepens your connection with God by allowing you to communicate with Him, express your thoughts and emotions, seek His guidance and comfort, and experience His peace and presence.

How can I discover my calling in Christ?

Discovering your calling in Christ involves seeking God’s will through prayer and reflection, using your unique gifts and talents to serve others, and being open to His leading in your life.

How can I face challenges with faith?

Facing challenges with faith requires trusting in God’s strength and guidance, seeking His wisdom and help, and relying on His promises to see you through difficult times.

How can I nurture my relationship with God and grow in spiritual maturity?

Nurturing your relationship with God and growing in spiritual maturity involves regularly spending time with Him through prayer and reading His word, seeking to know Him more deeply, and allowing His truth to transform your heart and actions.

What are the blessings of walking with God?

The blessings of walking with God include experiencing His presence, guidance, peace, and comfort in everyday life, finding strength and hope in His promises, and growing in love, joy, and spiritual maturity.

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Faith & Worship

Journeying with christ.

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Prayers exploring our daily walk with Christ

" As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. ‘Follow me,’ he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.." (Matthew 9:9)

In my journeying with you, may I never lose my sense of direction, never lose sight of the landmark towards which I travel. And should cloud or rain obscure my vision, may I draw closer to you, so that my feet may tread in your footsteps, your words be my encouragement, and your love my protection against the storms that assail me.

Your light is the only light I need as I travel through life's mystery. Your word the only voice I hear, that still small voice that leads me to the place where I should be. Your presence is the only company I need, as I walk this narrow road. Your fellowship the warmth I crave to help me on my way

In all our travelling ALL: May your footsteps guide us

In our journeying to work and returning ALL: May your footsteps guide us

Within our homes and families ALL: May your footsteps guide us

In our leisure time together ALL: May your footsteps guide us

In difficult situations and conflict ALL: May your footsteps guide us

As we stumble on the way ALL: May your footsteps guide us

In the travelling of our faith ALL: May your footsteps guide us

As we place our trust in you ALL: May your footsteps guide us

In all our travelling. Lord, may it be your footsteps in which we place our feet

Yours, Lord is the Glory in everything I see; a country scene, mountain stream, sunrise, sunset, rain and snow. Yours, Lord is the Glory wherever I might go

Yours, Lord is the Glory in everything I hear; a roaring sea, bumblebee, laughter, loving, a tender poem. Yours, Lord is the Glory wherever I might go

Yours, Lord is the Glory in everything I feel; a special place, warm embrace, accepted, helped to become whole

Your life was a journey from the moment you were born. From birth to death. From Bethlehem's stable to Calvary's cross. How often we fail to understand, that the conclusion of your journey was inevitable, that you understood this from the very beginning, and yet still walked the path that was yours to take. By comparison the many choices we make in our life seem trivial, the twists and turns we choose are often taken on impulse, with no clear comprehension of the outcome. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you that you loved humankind enough to make that journey, even as you felt the pain of rejection, the pain of the lashes, the pain of the nails, the pain of the cross.

Our walk with God is never a lonely walk, it is a family occasion, if taken in the company of God's children. If we lag behind, there are those who will turn and offer words of encouragement, hold out a hand and offer assistance over stiles and other obstacles, share refreshment, help us from our knees when we stumble. Our walk with God is never a lonely walk. It is a joyful experience, as along the path others join us, attracted by the company of God's children, singing the same songs of praise that angels sing, following a path worn down by tears and joy, and sacrifice. Our walk with God is never a lonely walk, for he walks with us, on a track that leads to a glorious destination.

For each step that I might take, Be my guide, O Lord of life. For each load that I might bear, Be my strength, O Lord of life. For each mountain I might face, Be my power, O Lord of life. For each river that might impede, Be my safety, O Lord of life. For each place where I might rest, Be my peace, O Lord of life. For each sunrise and sunset, Be my joy, O Lord of life.

Lord, we would grow with you, New shoots reaching out, Hands stretched upward, Like leaves newly formed, Soaking up your light and warmth. Lord, we would grow with you

Lord, we would grow with you, In sunshine and rain, In darkness and light, In cold days and summer days, From Springtime to Winter. Lord, we would grow with you

Lord, we would grow with you, And bring forth fruit, That is pleasing to you, Fed by your living water, Giving sustainance to others. Lord, we would grow with you

Stepping out with you is an adventure, is stepping out into unknown places, following unmarked paths, facing uncertain dangers, meeting unpopular people. Stepping out with you is an adventure, in faith.

Let my eyes be your eyes, sharing compassion, warmth and love.

Let my hands be your hands, bringing healing with their touch.

Let my ears be your ears, listening where there is need.

Let my words be your words, bringing comfort joy and peace .

Use these hands to carry the burden. Use this voice to carry your word. Use these feet to walk in your footsteps. Use this heart to transform the world.

God of the journey, may you be both traveling companion and mountain guide on this, our daily walk; lest unprepared or ill-equipped our feet should stumble on uneven ground, or clouds obscure the destination that we so long to see.

In this busy world that we inhabit grant us space to rest awhile - by the still waters of your peace, to hear the whisper of your voice and feel the warmth of your breeze within our souls. Grant us space to rest awhile.

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How Should Christians Respond to ‘Life Is a Journey, Not a Destination?’

• Cindi McMenamin Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer
• Updated Apr 26, 2021

When your plans get foiled, you find yourself on a detour, or you are smack dab in the middle of troubles, you may hear a well-meaning friend try to comfort you or steer you in the right direction with the phrase, “Life is a journey, not a destination.”

While that motto might seem like encouragement to hang in there and focus more on your present than your future, it can also steer you wrong if you start to live by it. Yes, life is a journey with its ups and downs. But if we lose sight of our ultimate destination, our journey through life’s challenges becomes meaningless. When you and I stop thinking of our final destination as believers, we will miss the opportunities throughout life that God gives us to refine our character, give Him glory, share Him with others, and ultimately prepare us for our eternity with Him in heaven.

What Does “Life Is a Journey, Not a Destination” Mean?

This well-worn maxim originated from American author Ralph Waldo Emerson who wrote in his essay, Self-Reliance : “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” His essay, intended to convince people to avoid conformity, stressed that for one to truly be significant he or she had to follow their own conscience and “do your own thing.” He contended that the process of creating is its own reward and that we can only feel relieved and happy in life when we pour our hearts into our work and do our best. Anything less will give us no peace, he wrote.

The mere fact that the quote comes from a position of relying on self should warn any believer that it runs contrary to what the Bible teaches about relying on God. The quote, in essence, implies that a journey is to have a goal in life and hopes to obtain that goal, but if you don’t then you can just enjoy an average life. A destination, on the other hand, is a concrete goal in which one will do whatever it takes to get there. In other words, if you set out to drive from California to New York and you’re focused on the destination, you’ll eventually get there. But if you choose to be more intent on the journey, itself, it’s possible you may get distracted and settle somewhere in the Midwest, causing you to never see or experience the East Coast at all.

What Does the Bible Say about Our Lives and Our Real Home As Christians?

Colossians 3:1-2 tells us to be heavenly minded, focused on our eternal home: “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (NKJV).

Jesus told us to invest in heaven – our destination – when He warned: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” ( Matthew 6:19-21 ). He knew that whatever we spent our time, money, and effort on would eventually win our hearts. He didn’t want us to become distracted with the things of this world and losing sight of our eternal destination.

Jesus also told a parable in Matthew 25:14-30 about the importance of investing well what God has given us on this earth because it will impact our eternal rewards and in some cases, our final destination.

“do their own thing” and go the way that most others are going and it will mean death and destruction. He urged that we not live for the here and now, nor follow where the crowd is going, but be careful to enter the “narrow gate.” In case there was any doubt where that narrow gate was, Jesus said in John 10:9 that He was the gate: “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.” Jesus also said in John 14:6 that He was the only way to heaven: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

How Should Christians Respond to “Life Is a Journey, Not a Destination?”

When someone tells you “life is a journey, not a destination,” they may very well be encouraging you to take time to smell the flowers, to bloom where you are planted, and to not be so focused on the end result that you miss the lessons and pleasures along the way. It’s true that we are to pay attention to what God is doing in our everyday life, as He refines us through our circumstances. Yet, life is very much about our destination, and the challenges we face are meant to prepare us for it.

Philippians 3:13-14 tells us to forget what lies behind (our baggage from the past), reach forward to what lies ahead (our eternal home), and “press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” That means, keep your eyes on the prize: your calling to serve and glorify God and spend eternity with Him. After all, we were created to love God and enjoy Him forever.

You can still enjoy the journey, learn from the journey, and allow God to shape and refine you on the journey. But don’t lose sight of where you are headed. There are not many roads to heaven and multiple ways to find God’s favor. Jesus said there was one  way – and it was through Him . Keep your eyes on that door and it will lead you to a destination of joy. Psalm 16:11 says, “In [His] presence is fullness of joy; At [His] right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

For more on growing in your faith and relationship with God so you can dwell in His presence forever, see Cindi’s books, Letting God Meet Your Emotional Needs ,  and    Women on the Edge .

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Find Joy in the Journey With These 15 Bible Verses About Joy

How do we find joy in the journey of life even when the journey has taken us along roads we never wanted to travel? How do we find joy when we are hurting, overwhelmed, or exhausted? Although it may feel impossible. It isn’t. With God, it is possible. But let’s find out more with these Bible verses about joy.

We need joy in our lives.

Without it, we leave ourselves vulnerable to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. Those symptoms then impact our physical health, our relationships, and our purpose.

But first what is joy?

We often get joy confused with happiness or believe they are the same thing. However, they are not. Per the website, Diffen, joy and happiness are defined as follows:

“Happiness is an emotion in which one experiences feelings ranging from contentment and satisfaction to bliss and intense pleasure.”

“Joy is a stronger, less common feeling than happiness. Witnessing or achieving selflessness to the point of personal sacrifice frequently triggers this emotion. Feeling spiritually connected to a god or to people.”

Biblically speaking, joy is something that lives within us because of the way we love God and therefore see life. It is something far more extensive than happiness and foundational to the way in which we live as Christians. Happiness is momentary. It is important and good. Yet, it isn’t what lives deep within us. Happiness comes from laughter, humor, fun, and relaxation. It’s the memories we make with our loved ones as we share both simple and momentous occasions together.

Yet, happiness and joy are woven together.

With a joy-filled life, we find more moments of happiness because our eyes are opened to the miracle of everyday life. And happiness, in turn, propels our joy and reminds us to look at Jesus and be thankful for all He has given us both great and small.

My God Story of Joy

I’ve always struggled with a weak immunity system along with a genetic kidney disease called Cystinuria . In my twenties, doctors didn’t believe I’d ever be able to have babies nor were they sure how long my kidneys would last me.

Although I still test positive for the disease, it rarely affects me. I had two babies and I still have both my kidneys. And through the ten surgeries in 2 years, wearing a nephrostomy tube for 8 months, and the passing of more than fifty kidney stones, I learned a little more about finding joy in the journey and paying close attention to moments of happiness.

Fast forward to 8 years ago and several years after my cystinuria struggles, I began experiencing chronic pain. The culprit turned out to be toxic black mold that was hiding behind the walls of a new home we had moved into. We also found out that my unique genetics allow mold to attack my pituitary gland which wreaks havoc on the human body. Although I was treated for mold poisoning and somewhat improved, it triggered a plethora of new health problems. Fibromyalgia, migraines, and severe food and environmental allergies are just a few.

Increased stress aggravates my symptoms. Over the last couple of years, as several stressors increased, so did my pain and ability to function well. That’s when I began to lose sight of finding joy in life.

I struggled with anxiety and depression. I began wondering where God was and why I couldn’t find relief. I was drowning in overwhelm, disappointment, and grief.

No. I’m not healed. My circumstances and stressors haven’t necessarily changed. But God continued to love me and wait for me as I found my way back to the peace I can only find in Him. The peace that surpasses all understanding.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:7 ESV

Finding Unexpected Joy

I wrote a post just a couple of weeks ago that serves as a practical how-to for finding joy in the journey of life. I wrote it for Maree Dee at Embracing the Unexpected , who is not only a friend but an incredible writer and mental health advocate. In the article, I share 16 ways to find unexpected joy in difficult seasons . Strategies are important in finding joy. Being intentional is important. In the post, I do include a few Bible verses about joy, but I didn’t feel as though they were enough.

The foundation of finding joy in the journey is knowing the heart of God.

It is in knowing Him, knowing His promises, and knowing His love for you. All of that is impossible without reading your Bible.

The Bible is God’s love story to His children. It’s in His Bible verses about joy that we learn what real joy is and how to live it out. It is His way of teaching us and communicating with us. The Bible is His recorded legacy so that, for all of time, people may know the God who created them.

What About You?

Friend, where is your joy today? Are you facing a difficult season for the first time? Or, are you weary from back-to-back seasons? Perhaps you once found joy but in this new season, you feel lost. For whatever reason, I know you need hope . You need a reminder that finding joy and living out of its overflow is possible.

I’m here as that reminder. I’m here to tell you that the But God stories of my life are more than possible for your life, too, so don’t lose heart. Your joy is important to God. Pastor Colin Smith at Open the Bible writes that joy is referenced in the ESV Bible translation 430 times! That’s a lot of Bible verses about joy. I pray that fact seeps deep into your soul so that you do not doubt how much God cares for you!

I can’t possibly share all 430 times, but I will share with you these 15 Bible verses about joy! Eight of the verses are from the New Testament and seven are from the Book of Psalms. The Book of Psalms is loaded with stories of finding joy in the journey of life . It is a written record of the human experience that goes from pain, lament, and anger, then to peace and joy.

Find Joy in the Journey With These 8 Bible Verses from the New Testament

“You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.” -John 16:24 NLT

“so be truly glad. [ a ]  there is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while.” – 1 peter 1:6 nlt, “i have loved you even as the father has loved me. remain in my love. when you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as i obey my father’s commandments and remain in his love. i have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. yes, your joy will overflow” -john 15:9-11 nlt, “i pray that god, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the holy spirit. -romans 15:13 nlt, “rejoice in our confident hope. be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.” -romans 12:12 nlt, “dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.   for you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. so let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” -james 1:2-4, “so you have sorrow now, but i will see you again; then you will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy.” -john 16:22 nlt, “then you will experience god’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. his peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in christ jesus.” -philippians 4:7 nlt, find joy in the journey with these 7 bible verses from the book of psalms.

“You make known to me the path of life;     in your presence there is fullness of joy;     at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” -Psalms 16:11 ESV

“i will shout for joy and sing your praises,     for you have ransomed me.” -psalms 71:23 nlt, “for his anger lasts only a moment,     but his favor lasts a lifetime weeping may last through the night,     but joy comes with the morning.” -psalm 30:5 nlt, “this is the day the lord has made. we will rejoice and be glad in it.” -psalms 118:24 nlt, “those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy.” -psalms 126:5 nlt, “but let all who take refuge in you rejoice let them sing joyful praises forever. spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy.” -psalms 5:11 nlt, “when doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.” -psalms 94:19 nlt.

I pray that the words I share here point to the joy and hope we have in Christ . I hope they encourage you to do the next right thing and they begin a new deepening desire to seek Jesus in all things. May you thirst for His Word and His presence! And if this did help, would you drop me a note to share how? I’d love to know this and if there is something more you wonder about or need to know!

More Joy? More Hope?

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Come and See: The Journey of Knowing God through Scripture

By Jonathan T. Pennington

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3 Effective Ways to Study Scripture for an Essential Understanding of Who God Is

The Bible invites us to know God and have eternal life. That makes reading, understanding, and applying Scripture the most important journey we will ever take, but it can be difficult without a guide to provide direction.

In  Come and See , Jonathan Pennington helps readers understand what it means to know God from the Bible and details 3 effective approaches to interpreting Scripture. Using the engaging analogy of a road trip, he introduces 3 friends who each have distinct, clear ways of navigating the Bible: informational (understanding genres in Scripture and avoiding exegetical mistakes); theological (reading canonically, traditionally, and creedally); and transformational (focusing on the goal of reading Scripture, our posture as readers, and the role of the Holy Spirit). Pennington gives detailed advice for employing all 3 reading modes, equipping readers to gain wisdom and know God better.   

• Comprehensive:  Explores 3 approaches to studying Scripture—informational, theological, and transformational—and includes exercises to practice each
• Enhances Personal or Group Bible Study:  Helps readers engage in deeper communion with God by purposefully journeying through his word
• Ideal for Pastors, Seminary Students, and Laypeople:  With an engaging, conversational style, Pennington teaches deep truths about knowing God and interpreting Scripture

Read Chapter 1

Jonathan Pennington (PhD, University of St Andrews) serves as professor of New Testament interpretation at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and pastor of spiritual formation at Sojourn East church in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author of several books including Reading the Gospels Wisely , The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing , and Jesus the Great Philosopher .

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Table of Contents

Introduction:  Starting Out: Road Trip!

The First Stage of the Journey: Informational Reading with Ingrid Reading through Three Avenues Side Trip 1: Maps and Seeing Understanding Different Literary Genres Side Trip 2: Reading in St. Petersburg (and Other Places) Avoiding Common Exegetical Mistakes

The Second Stage of the Journey: Theological Reading with Tom The Context of the Canon — Canonical Reading Side Trip 3: Our Right and Left Brains The Context of the Church’s Tradition — Traditioned Reading Side Trip 4: Two T. Rexes and the Gestalt Shift The Context of Creedal Orthodoxy — Creedal Reading

The Third Stage of the Journey: Transformational Reading with Taylor The Goal of Reading Scripture Side Trip 5: Metaphors We Read By The Posture of Reading Scripture Side Trip 6: Knowing through Rituals The Holy Spirit in Reading Scripture   Epilogue: The Final Destination Notes General Index Scripture Index

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Bible Verses About Journey

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1 Kings 19:4

Deuteronomy 10:11, exodus 3:18, exodus 40:36, genesis 29:1, jeremiah 29:11.

Proverbs 22:6

Psalms 23:4

Psalms 91:11

Psalms 119:105.

Psalms 146:9

Romans 15:24, numbers 9:13, proverbs 3:5-6.

Judges 18:5-6

Genesis 12:1-2.

How to go to Heaven

How to get right with god.

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From Exodus to Promised Land: A Journey of Faith and Deliverance

The exodus of the Israelites from Egypt stands as one of the most remarkable events in Hebrew history, symbolizing a profound journey of faith, liberation, and divine deliverance. Guided by Moses, the chosen leader, the Israelites embarked on an extraordinary expedition towards the Promised Land, a journey filled with trials and divine interventions. Let us delve into the biblical accounts of this transformative odyssey, exploring the significance of this epic journey in shaping the identity and faith of the Hebrews.

The Cry for Deliverance:

The book of Exodus commences with the distressing plight of the Israelites in Egypt. Enslaved and oppressed, they cried out to God for deliverance. In Exodus 2:24, we read, "And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob."

This acknowledgment of the covenant with their forefathers underscores the faithfulness of God to His promises, setting the stage for the miraculous journey that lay ahead.

The Miraculous Plagues:

God responded to the cries of His people with a series of awe-inspiring plagues upon Egypt, each demonstrating His unmatched power and authority. Through these plagues, He showcased His supremacy over the Egyptian gods and rulers, leading to the eventual release of the Israelites.

The Crossing of the Red Sea:

One of the most iconic moments of the exodus is the crossing of the Red Sea. With the pursuing Egyptian army closing in, God miraculously parted the waters, allowing the Israelites to pass through on dry land. In Exodus 14:22, it is written, "And the people of Israel went into the midst of the sea on dry ground, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left."

This divine intervention was not only a miraculous escape from danger but also an affirmation of God's providence and protection throughout their journey.

The Covenant at Mount Sinai:

Amidst their wilderness wanderings, the Israelites arrived at Mount Sinai, where they entered into a covenant with God. Moses received the Ten Commandments and the Mosaic Law, providing a moral and spiritual framework for the emerging nation.

This covenant marked a pivotal moment in Hebrew history, solidifying their commitment to serve and obey God, and it continues to shape the moral foundation of many societies to this day.

The Journey to the Promised Land:

The journey to the Promised Land was not without its challenges. The Israelites faced various trials, tests of faith, and moments of doubt. Yet, God remained steadfast in His guidance and provision. In Deuteronomy 8:15-16, we read, "He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock."

The exodus from Egypt to the Promised Land stands as an enduring testament to the power of faith and divine deliverance. The journey of the Israelites shaped their identity as a chosen and redeemed people, illustrating God's faithfulness to His promises and His unwavering presence in their lives.

From the cries of deliverance to the miracles at the Red Sea, the exodus journey reverberates with profound lessons of trust, perseverance, and God's enduring love for His people. This epic odyssey continues to inspire and strengthen the faith of believers, reminding us that in our own journeys, we too can find hope and deliverance through faith in the Almighty.

Related Articles:

Hebrews through the Ages: The Enduring Legacy of Abraham’s Offspring

The story of the Hebrews, the descendants of Abraham, is a tapestry of miracles, trials, triumphs, and divine promises that have withstood the test of time. From the days of Abraham, through the biblical narratives and into modern times, the enduring...

Surviving the Roman Siege: The Story of Jerusalem’s Destruction

The destruction of Jerusalem stands as a haunting chapter in Hebrew history, marked by the Roman siege and the tragic downfall of the city. As we delve into the biblical accounts and historical records, we uncover the harrowing tale of Jerusalem's su...

Ancient Jerusalem: Unveiling the City’s Rich Heritage

Jerusalem, the timeless city at the heart of Hebrew history, stands as a symbol of faith, identity, and divine presence. Revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, Jerusalem's ancient roots are deeply intertwined with biblical narratives that un...

Echoes of Triumph and Tragedy: Kings and Prophets in Hebrew History

The history of the Hebrews is intricately woven with the narratives of their kings and prophets. From triumphant victories to heartbreaking tragedies, these figures played pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of the Hebrew people. As we explore their...

The Messiah’s Impact: Exploring Jesus’ Connection to Hebrew History

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Captivity and Redemption: Lessons from the Babylonian Exile

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Hebrew History

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• The Disobedience
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The Discovery of That I Am

Posted on by William Lemieux in A Journey of God

A journey of God happens where ever a person transcends the limitations of physical reality and goes into the deeper reality of the meaning of to be. The Hebrew concept of God, I am who am, means I am is a universal. I am vaster than the space in which the universe expands. And yet […]

Following God

Posted on by William Lemieux in Following God

Following God is governed only by the totality of Love, which is beyond definition. Plato’s famous Allegory of the Cave, puts people into a cave whose only reality from their infancy was the light of a fire, and that’s all they ever saw: their reality was limited to the shadows on the cave walls. Finally […]

Hope In God

Posted on by William Lemieux in Hope In God

Do you want to be the person you’ve built? The minute you ask “Who Am I” you are also asking “Who am I not” and “What could I be?” By asking the question, you’re presuming there are other choices and definitions, and you’re already in change. You’re taking a step toward courage when you ask […]

Are there any special packaging or presentation features associated with the Sp5der Pnk V2 Hoodie Black that set it apart from standard black Sp5der hoodies

Posted on by William Lemieux in blog

Answer: The Sp5der P*nk V2 Hoodie Black features a unique and eye-catching design that sets it apart from standard black Sp5der hoodies. The hoodie showcases a vibrant and bold pink spider graphic on the front, adding a pop of color and style to the classic black hoodie. This special packaging and presentation feature makes the […]

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11 Bible Verses about Our Journey With God

Hebrews 11:6 esv / 3 helpful votes helpful not helpful.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Romans 5:8 ESV / 3 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Acts 3:19 ESV / 3 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,

Psalm 23:1-6 ESV / 3 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. ...

Revelation 3:20 ESV / 2 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.

1 John 1:9 ESV / 2 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

James 1:27 ESV / 2 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV / 2 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Romans 3:10 ESV / 2 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

As it is written: “None is righteous, no, not one;

Luke 10:25-37 ESV / 2 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.” But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” ...

Numbers 13:1-33 ESV / 2 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful

The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the people of Israel. From each tribe of their fathers you shall send a man, every one a chief among them.” So Moses sent them from the wilderness of Paran, according to the command of the Lord , all of them men who were heads of the people of Israel. And these were their names: From the tribe of Reuben, Shammua the son of Zaccur; from the tribe of Simeon, Shaphat the son of Hori; ...

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Unless otherwise indicated, all content is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License . All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles , a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Contact me: openbibleinfo (at) gmail.com.

Survivor, Marine: One man’s incredible journey to inner peace

T here’s a unique beginning to "The Guide: Survival, Warfighting, Peacemaking" — Greg Munck ‘s moving and uplifting memoir of his fascinating journey that took him from a nightmarish childhood to becoming a war hero as a U.S. Marine and finally finding peace in his life’s work as a man of God.

The book opens with a dramatic forward from Munck’s longtime friend, a man named Kenny Luck, who introduces the author to readers as “the complex Renaissance man I call my friend, Greg Munck, USMC ret., one of the greatest human beings I know walking planet Earth.”

“It is most honest to introduce ' The Guide' to you in this way,” Luck writes. “Prepare to let your blood boil, your heart break and your inner person feel encouraged by the triumph of the human spirit in the midst of life’s most unwelcome, uncontrollable and unbelievable events.”

As it turns out, this introduction sets the tone perfectly for the rest of the book in which Munck tells us his wildly improbably story of success and salvation.

He begins by recounting a terribly troubled childhood in which he grew up with a drunk, drug-addicted father who forced Munck to use cocaine with him at the age of 13; was frequently in trouble with the law and in jail; and disappeared from the family for long periods of time to satisfy his addictions.

But Munck survives all this and really begins to turn his life around when he joins the Marines after high school. In fact, the title of The Guide comes in part from an incident that happened to him as a young Marine.

“My book is called The Guide because I was the platoon leader in Marine Corps boot camp,” Munck writes. “You carry the platoon flag with the platoon number on it, called “the guidon,” so in turn, that makes you the guide.”

Munck tells a dramatic story about how a tough drill sergeant told him he was worthless as a Marine and screamed at him to spit on the Marine platoon flag. Munck refused, even though the drill sergeant threatened him with a court martial for defying a direct order. “No, sir! I won’t spit on our flag, our platoon, our family, our corps and our country! No matter what you do! No, sir, I won’t do it!”

He said the drill sergeant then hugged him like a proud father. It had been a test. And Munck had passed the test with flying colors. “That’s why you’re the guide!” the drill sergeant said.

Later, we also find out that The Guide also refers to Munck’s acceptance and embrace of Christianity in his life.

After boot camp, Munck embarks on a weeks long boat trip with other Marines to the Iraqi war front; serves admirably in combat as a Marine; returns to the U.S. after his discharge and gets a high-paying job with a technology company; and marries the woman he loves and raises five children with her.

But during those early years after the Marines, Munck still felt something was missing for him — and he finally found it in God and his Christian religion. He eventually left his high-paying job to work with the church — first as a youth counselor, then as a full-time minister. Today he is the pastor of his own church in Southern California.

Throughout the book, Munck talks about the importance of his Christian religion in his life’s travels — and it includes numerous quotes from and about Jesus and God and verses from the Bible. Munck makes it clear this has been the most important aspect of his life, the thing that helped him go from his sad childhood to the life he has managed to live now. As he says himself so eloquently at the end of the book:

“Life doesn’t always go as planned, and some of the most memorable things in life that happen to us are both good and bad. When life throws you a detour, don’t miss what you can learn from it. We seem to grow the most through the toughest times. And who knows? Maybe your craziest story could be the thing that blesses someone else, or at least makes them laugh. There is one thing that stands out the most on the wonderful journey of writing this book: how God’s hand has been guiding me and providing for me every step of the way — even when I was far from Him. I hope you see that too and know that God has a plan for your life.”

This is a heartwarming story of perseverance, determination and faith by a man who seemingly had all the cards stacked against him in life but came out a winner.

©2024 BookTrib. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Daily Devotional God Is Always Right on Time

“…knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”

1 Peter 1:18-19

June 29, 2024

Ponder This

When Jesus spoke in parables, He did so not only to reveal but also to conceal. He knew when to share and when to guard. His timing was intentional. Jesus knew the time to reveal the treasure He had. He timed it all perfectly. He revealed the treasure, covered it back up again, and went to redeem that treasure. He’s the One who paid the price to buy the field of Matthew 13:44.

Jesus purchased the field with His own blood. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son” (John 3:16). He is the One who covered that treasure. He’s the One who’s coming to reveal the treasure, to redeem the treasure, and to reclaim the treasure. What does that mean for us? Everything’s on schedule; God’s timing is not off. He knows exactly what He is doing.

• When has it been hard for you to trust God’s timing? Where are you waiting on God right now?
• How does God’s intentional timing encourage you?

Practice This

Share with a friend something you have struggled with regarding God’s timing.

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7 Ways to Restore Your Faith [+ FAQs]

Why Do We Lose Faith?

7 ways to reconnect with your faith, why faith is a lifelong journey, faqs about finding faith again.

What does it mean to have faith? For some of us, faith needs no definition or explanation — we know something to be true like we breathe air or see the sun rise in the morning. For others, faith inspires more questions than answers — they need tangible proof of something before they can believe it’s there.

If you feel as though you’ve grown away from your faith, know that this is a normal part of anyone’s faith journey. You are not alone — and there is a way back.

It is normal to question your faith in anything at times; humans are naturally curious, and we like to see evidence of things before believing them to be true. We naturally have a lot of questions, even when it comes to things we’ve believed our whole lives. 

Since religion asks for our faith, humans frequently question its validity, including its history, authority figures, and even its prophets and divine entities. Religion can fill one’s life with joy, as well as offer a lifeline in times of tragedy or stress. However, a person can lose trust in a higher power for many reasons. If there is a God, why do bad things happen? It’s a fair question — and those who ask it are not alone. 

Losing faith in God can be destabilizing, and it may feel easier to give up religion altogether rather than wrestle with difficult questions or doubt. Many people who lose faith might feel completely alone with their doubts, especially if they are members of a closed spiritual community. Questioning and investigating one’s own faith may seem like a thoroughly modern pursuit, as fewer people inherit religion from their parents today . However, remember that humans ( even saintly ones ) have been pushing back against God for millenia. 

Having uncomfortable feelings about faith can indicate that you are taking your relationship with religion seriously and that you just need to find the right resources to help answer your burning questions. That said, finding faith in God again is not easy — if it were, there wouldn’t be articles like this.

There are countless stories of faith lost and found, which means that there are plenty of helpful pointers throughout history and Scripture. Below are seven paths that can lead you back to your faith, with some invaluable resources to explore along the way.

1. Know more about your faith

While it can feel lonely to harbor doubts about religion, chances are you are not the first person to ask these questions. Consult someone you trust in your community. Ask them if they have ever felt similarly and how they searched for answers. They may point you to books that address your questions, or recommend relevant classes , blogs , symposiums , or podcasts .

Reading and learning more about your religion (or faith in general) can offer shape and framework to the ineffable. If faith is a belief in something that can’t be proven, that doesn’t mean there isn’t endless literature, art, thesis papers, films, lecture series , and entire degree programs that explore every aspect of it. While knowledge doesn’t necessarily offer clean answers or “quick fixes,” knowing more about the faith you’re trying to reclaim can help fill in some of the blanks.

Further Reading: Explore the Franciscan Spirit Blog, from Franciscan Media, featuring articles by FST students and faculty. >>

2. Check in with the Bible

If you are searching for proof that you are not alone in your doubt, look no further than the Bible itself. Nearly every book in both the Hebrew Bible and New Christian Testament contains at least one story of someone who lost their faith and endured any number of challenges to find it again. For a small sampling, see the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), the story of Gideon and the Midianites (Judges 6:11-24), and Moses himself , just to name a few.

If podcasts are more your speed (or if you don’t have time to sift through the Bible), there are dozens of high-quality, faith-forward productions out there that range from timely to chatty and light , from nonsectarian to progressive .

3. Reflect on past success

If you find your faith faltering after a series of setbacks, it can feel almost impossible to “look on the bright side.” When you are in the depths of frustration and despair, finding bright spots in your life story requires putting in work. Exercises like counting your blessings or writing down positive affirmations can feel forced and trite, especially when you’re not in the mood, but you’d be surprised at the difference a little active gratitude can make.

As you reflect on your wins, reflect on your losses, too — especially how you overcame them. Realizing you are capable of beating even the smallest odds can give you the strength and confidence to keep pursuing lost faith.

4. Accept past challenges

Along with acknowledging past successes, one must make peace with past challenges to move forward in a healthy manner. There is no starting over — there is only moving on with grace, acceptance, and resolve to have faith in better days.

Everyone struggles; that is a fact of life. Even those we hold up as spiritual role models struggle with very human hardships and doubt. It is how you handle your challenges , and the lessons you take from them, that makes the difference between someone who gives in to despair and self-pity and someone who believes things can change for the better. If you feel as though holding onto past challenges is preventing you from moving forward, accepting those challenges for what they were (and how they helped you grow) can help a great deal in nurturing your faith.

5. Lean on your spiritual community

If you find yourself losing faith within a strong spiritual community, find someone you trust to confide in. It’s likely that they will have experienced something similar and may offer advice or let you in on what helped them wrestle with difficult questions.

If you haven’t been a part of a spiritual community for a long time, it may be time to attend a church service. Do a little research into the theological views of your local parishes to find one that aligns with your values. Weekly services provide a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment in which to sit with your feelings, meet new people, and perhaps hear a new approach to the faith you lost touch with.

Don’t be afraid to ask the pastor for guidance or a meeting outside of the service. Church leaders are often the most valuable resources for addressing a loss of faith; often, those with the strongest commitment are the ones who have struggled the most with their beliefs.

Spiritual communities take many forms outside of church — you can expand your search to reading groups, activity groups, community ministries, and educational institutions . Graduate programs in theological studies or lay ministry offer the ideal format in which to actively examine your questions, while supported by like-minded students and educators .

6. Leave room for growth

Having faith does not always equate to blind belief or unquestioning devotion. If influential figures like St. Francis , St. Clare , John the Baptist , and Mother Teresa of Calcutta can question their faith, anyone can — and come out the other side with altogether new perspectives.

Leaving room for questioning your beliefs is healthy and normal, since it allows your faith to grow and change along with you. Human beings are not meant to be static, and neither is faith.

If you are feeling lost and truly don’t know how to find your way back to your faith, start praying. Prayer does not require memorizing specific phrases, nor does it require you to be a member of a particular religious group. Prayer is simply a one-on-one conversation with a higher power and can follow whatever format feels comfortable for you.

Start praying about something you believe in without question — describe your love for a family member, state your belief in a better future, express gratitude for your blessings. The more practice you have with these one-on-one conversations, the more you’ll open your heart to faith.

The first step in restoring your faith is to acknowledge that faith is a lifelong process — there is no end destination. If you are naturally curious, you will never stop having questions about your religion and spirituality; learning to live and grow with your questions is part of a normal spiritual journey. 

If you find that restoring your faith feels overwhelming, take it one step at a time. Read, listen, and talk with like-minded people. Be patient with yourself — taking it slowly, or even taking a break, does not mean that you are giving up. Have faith in yourself, and you will find your way back.

Do I need to go to church to find my faith again?

If you find yourself missing a spiritual community, attending a church service is an excellent way to connect with others in a supportive, non-judgemental environment. Regular services can provide the structure you need to focus on restoring your faith, but spiritual communities appear in many forms. Consider finding a book group, class , community ministry, or even a faith-based nonprofit that offers volunteer opportunities. Stay open to new possibilities, and you’ll find a way to reconnect with your faith that feels right.

Which Bible passages talk about losing one’s faith?

There are stories of faith lost and found in almost every book of the Hebrew Bible and the New Christian Testament. For a small sampling, see the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), the story of Gideon and the Midianites (Judges 6:11-24), and the story of Moses (Exodus 3:3-22).

Who can I talk to about restoring my faith?

If you are part of a spiritual community and find yourself losing your faith, talk to someone you trust who will withhold their judgment. Chances are, they have felt similarly and may be able to offer advice and solutions that worked for them. If you haven’t been a part of a spiritual community for a long time, find a church or community that resonates and speak to a spiritual leader. Often, those who express the strongest commitment to their faith are the same ones who have wrestled with doubt.

How do I start praying?

For those who may be out of practice, prayer can be as simple as a one-on-one conversation with a higher power. Prayer does not necessarily require memorizing specific phrases, nor does it require you to be a member of a particular religious group.

Start by praying about something you believe in without question, such as your love for a family member or the gratitude you feel for your blessings. The more practice you have, the more comfortable you will become with prayer.

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Our Journey Towards Becoming Righteous

You are here.

This message looks at success stories in the Bible to help us understand that our journey towards becoming righteous requires faith and closeness to God.

Jack Demirgian

You might also be interested in.....

Journey to celebrate 50th anniversary with 30 shows in 2024: See where they're headed

Journey is continuing the celebration of its five-decade career with a run of 2024 shows.

The 50 th Anniversary Freedom Tour kicks off Feb. 9 in Biloxi, Mississippi and will play 30 dates in North America through April 29 in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. local time on Sept. 29 via ticketmaster.com.

Toto, which supported Journey on their tour earlier this year to celebrate their "Freedom" album, will again join Journey founder, guitarist Neal Scho n, keyboardist Jonathan Cain, lead singer Arnel Pineda, keyboardist Jason Derlatka, drummer Deen Castronovo and bassist Todd Jensen as show openers.

Journey's tour finds the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers tearing through a set list of anthems including "Any Way You Want It," "Faithfully," "Be Good to Yourself" and, of course, "Don't Stop Believin'."

When "Freedom" arrived in July 2022, Schon told USA Today that the album title was originally tapped for the band's 1986 release, "Raised on Radio," but then-singer Steve Perry didn't like it, "so we sat on it for many years … when we were tossing around album titles said, why not just call the whole thing 'Freedom?' It's for the times right now."

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Schon was also sanguine when reflecting on the band’s legacy.

"It’s quite an accomplishment and I’m very proud of what we’ve done and how we’ve gotten through emotional and personnel changes and survived," he said. "It’s pretty mind-boggling but also a lot of hard work."

More: Journey co-founder George Tickner dies: 'Fly free above the stars'

Here are Journey's 2024 Freedom Tour dates

*Sioux City on sale Thursday, October  5

David Duchovny Explains How He 'Discovered' One of Hollywood's Biggest Stars in His 1997 Movie

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• David Duchovny claims to have "discovered" Angelina Jolie in 1997's Playing God.
• Jolie's career took off after her role in Playing God , with notable films like Pushing Tin , The Bone Collector, and Girl, Interrupted .
• Duchovny played a part in Jolie's casting in the movie, recognizing her potential as a star.

David Duchovny has made a bold statement in a recent interview when sharing his feelings about “discovering” Angelina Jolie while working with the actress back in his 1997 movie Playing God . Although Jolie had made several appearances by the time she worked with Duchovny on the Andy Wilson movie, The X-Files star explained how he played a pivotal role in Jolie’s casting in the movie.

Playing God was written by Mark Haskell Smith, and centers on a disgraced surgeon who reinvents himself as a "gunshot doctor" in the criminal underworld. Along with Duchovny and Jolie, the film also starred Timothy Hutton, Michael Massee, Peter Stormare, Andrew Tiernan, Gary Dourdan, and John Hawkes.

While Duchovny doesn’t claim to have “discovered” the actress in the full sense of the word, having a hand in making sure she was cast in Playing God is enough for him to suggest that he knew straight away that she was a real star in the making. Speaking on SiriusXM’s Radio Andy , Duchovny said:

"I feel like I discovered Angelina Jolie. Yeah, cause I was part of the casting. I didn’t discover her, but… she came in, and I just knew she was a movie star, and I told everybody [that] we’ve gotta cast her."

By the time she appeared in Playing God, Jolie’s journey in Hollywood had well and truly begun. From her appearance in Meat Loaf’s music video for Objects in the Rear View Mirror (May Appear Closer Than They Are) and Cyborg 2 both in 1993, through roles in Hackers, Mojave Moon, and Foxfire , Jolie’s early years were not so much full of memorable hits as full of potential for what was to come.

Angelina Jolie’s Career Soared After Being 'Discovered' by David Duchovny

When looking at Jolie’s body of work before and after her appearance in Playing God , it is quite easy to see why Duchovny would want to lay claim to helping the actress become the star she was destined to be – even if his comments were said with a touch of jest. Following her role as Claire in the movie, she soon appeared in movies like Pushing Tin, The Bone Collector , and Girl, Interrupted , which secured her a first Oscar win as Best Supporting Actress.

From there on out, Jolie’s reputation as a formidable force in any movie saw her claim many more big movie roles, dozens of awards, and most recently a role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing Thena in Eternals . Since that movie’s release in 2021, Jolie has not appeared in any movies, instead taking time to focus on her family and the many causes she supports. She will return to screens playing the role of opera singer Maria Callas in the movie Maria .

Angelina Jolie's 10 Most Underrated Movies

Angelina Jolie is one of the best actresses in Hollywood today, but some of her best work has gone largely unnoticed.

David Duchovny was most recently seen in Stephen King-based prequel, Pet Semetary: Bloodlines and Reverse the Curse , as well as starring in the TV shows The History of the World Part II, and Robert Downey Jr. series The Sympathizer .

Playing God can currently be streamed on Hoopla in the U.S.

• David Duchovny
• Angelina Jolie