CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLISTS ASSOCIATION

Here in the southeast we can boast of an extended riding season. In fact, we make it a point to ride on Christmas day and New Years day just because we can! The spring season is the most beautiful time to ride. The spring temperature is perfect, the environment is nicely green and growing, and it is the ideal time to plan for a long ride or a multi-day trip.

Over the past couple of years we have traveled from Florida to New York. Where would you like to go? Planning for a trip can be fun or it can be stressful. So, what makes the difference between fun and stressful in trip planning? It could be the goal of the trip, the weather, lack of uncertainty, or lack of control when on the road. When making plans for a trip, it’s best to have a destination picked out first. The reason behind the destination could be to visit family or friends, or to attend an event or explore a new place. Whatever the reason, the plan begins to take form and come together as you iron out the details. We are reminded of the proverb that says:

“Proverbs 16:9 We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps”. This tells us that no matter how detailed our plans are, we need room for the Lord to make changes along the way.

Although we have a plan, changes can happen and interruptions come to redirect our path. Sometimes it can be difficult to accept these changes. It is easy for us to only look at the negatives in our new redirected path. Has this ever happened to you? Be encouraged. We read in the book of Psalm 37:23-24 “The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand”. What a promise to hold on to when we are on the road and our steps seem to be changing.

When our plan changes, it may have caused us to meet new people or go to new places. It’s funny though, how the redirections or changes may even end up being the best part of the trip! But, only if we let it. Our attitude truly makes a difference when this happens.

Teach’s Takeaway,

- Use wisdom and make excellent plans.

- Allow God to direct your steps.

- God delights in every detail of our lives.

- If you stumble, The Lord holds you in His hand.

Don’t let the stress of planning for a long trip take away from what the Lord can show you. Through prayer, invite the Lord to help you plan your trip. Riding through God’s creation is exhilarating and good for our spirit, and it just might be the best trip you have ever had.

Fellow Soldier in Christ, Wayne (Teach) Masiker Christian Motorcyclists Association wayne.masiker@att.net