One of my orchids has created an interesting stem growth pattern. Instead of moving in a “normal” direction, the stem branched into a wide arc that continues to wind its way in an ever-expanding, circular path of growth.
Sometimes, our journey is similar. We begin with goals and dreams, but often, life unfolds in a different-than-expected progression.
Following are thoughts on life’s circuitous path:
Wandering
How do you handle a circuitous life path? Do you go with the flow, or fight what you perceive as the wrong direction?
Some life seasons feel like an aimless wander down a winding path. Perhaps, instead, a wandering path leads us to a place of surety when we identify the correct route. However, don’t let wandering become a permanent state. Always search for a defined route, even if it seems too steep, too hard, or too impossible.
Puzzle Pieces
If you work jigsaw puzzles, you know how daunting the task feels when you first open the box and look at the jumble of pieces. How can you ever make sense of all the colors and shapes and form them into a cohesive pattern that results in a finished scene? Where is the starting place?
The phrase “eat the elephant one bite at a time” comes to mind. The gist of this phrase is to approach a seemingly impossible task in small segments, instead of stressing about how everything fits together at once.
Many puzzle-workers find corners or side pieces first to form a framework for the whole. But you may be one who searches for like colors and works in internal segments. Either is fine; both working toward solving the puzzle.
When life throws you a handful of disjointed puzzle pieces, look for similar patterns. How does this segment fit that one, or does it? Keep trying until you find a fit. And if nothing fits together, look beyond, to another section or group of pieces, to gain forward motion.
Utilizing Discernment
God-given discernment is a gift we often leave unwrapped. Scripture reminds us we will find God if we seek him wholeheartedly. (Jeremiah 29:13)
God provides a wealth of wisdom and discernment when we ask Him. So, when you feel you are wandering without direction, and none of the puzzle pieces fit together, ask God for help. He is more than willing to instruct, direct, and guide.
Trusting God for Next Steps
You don’t have to navigate life in your own strength. In fact, we are more likely to mess up when we attempt to travel a path of our own choosing, one that feels right, but is off course.
So what of my orchid with the wandering stem? The path of the stem seems aimless, but I realized it is following the light, moving forward, growing, and blooming in a light-infused direction.
May it be the same for you. Follow the Light, Jesus the Christ, and He will lead you in the straight path for your life.
“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life” (John 8:12 NLT).
“With all my heart I have sought You, [inquiring of You and longing for You];
Do not let me wander from Your commandments [neither through ignorance nor by willful disobedience]” (Psalm 119:10 AMP).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is an award-winning writer, blogger, and speaker. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotions published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
To receive Candy’s blog, Forward Motion, via email, go to https://candyarrington.com/blog/ and scroll to the bottom of the page to sign up.