The Ride–Part 2

“Whoever goes to the Lord for safety, whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty, can say to Him, “You are my defender and protector. You are my God; in You I trust.”  Psalm 91:1-2 GNT

 We were all geared up to take off to ride, and oh how fast we went! I thought, oh my goodness, what have I gotten myself into? I felt so free on that bike seeing the beauty around us, but also so vulnerable with no protection around us as I would if riding in a car. I held on to my husband’s waist with one arm and firmly gripped the seat handle with the other hand and started to pray! Oh Lord, please keep us safe; please keep all the cars far from us!

Once my heart settled down, I began to relax and enjoy the ride! Although we were going fast, it felt like time slowed down. We could see beauty all around us with the pop of vibrant fall colors showing on the massive trees lining the mountains. The lake was smooth as silk and you could see the reflections of the trees and huge mountains on top of the still water. Beauty surrounded us.

We stopped to enjoy the view and I asked my husband how I was doing as the passenger, hoping to get a good report. He said, “Pretty good, but it would be better if you just held onto to me and lean as I lean, and follow my leading into the twists and turns. Let me guide you.”

As we took off and rode again, I snugly put my arms around him and followed his instructions. I began to think how this is much like listening to the Lord. God wants to lead our lives. He wants to drive us and take us on the journey. With our hands off the steering wheel and firmly around our Lord, we are free to relax and enjoy the journey God has for each of us. Yes, there may be bumps along the way, but God’s plans for us are always good (Jeremiah 29:11).

As for us, this two-hour journey felt like a mini-vacation. We got to spend time together sitting closely on the bike enjoying God’s beauty. We were reminded of how precious life is as we took time to stop at a local cemetery. I learned more about the importance of the armor of God and respecting my husband’s instructions to me.

When I got home and took off my shoes, I noticed there was a big hole burned in the side of my shoe. I had not even noticed on the ride, but the shoes protected me from being badly burned from the tailpipe. I realized I followed instructions this day, instead of doing things on my own like I usually do. This is a good thing—a God thing—and His way is always best!

Thank You, Lord, for the lessons You teach me through the simple things in life and for Your protection along the journey.