Wow! What an exciting few months we’ve had around our house! We found out our oldest son and daughter-in-law are having our very first grandchild– a boy! Shortly after that, our middle son got engaged to a beautiful and talented God’s girl (who we dearly love) and will be marrying her next summer. We are “over the moon” about the joyful events happening in the lives of our young adult children and look forward to many more exciting announcements.

But, not only has it recently rained blessings, it has also poured challenges. Our athletic daughter broke her finger and had to have finger surgery, taking her out of play for the rest of the volleyball season. And, my 90-year-old mother had a health scare that landed her in the hospital for several days. She recovered, thanks to the grace of God and the skill of the physicians in charge of her care. We are grateful for that.

It seems that one day we are celebrating and the next, dropping to our knees for help.

Such is life. We never really know what is coming around the next bend. Much like rafters amidst the current of a raging river, we move along through the many twists and turns, frequently coming precariously close to massive boulders, shooting over rapids, and narrowly missing gnarled and dangerous logs hidden just under the surface. The quiet, tranquil areas are few and far between. When we do find a bit of calm in which to rest along life’s journey, it’s never long before we are swept back into the river’s swift, determined current.

It’s not all fear and mayhem, however.

If you’ve ever been on a river rafting trip then you know– the joy is in the journey…and the scenery…and the camaraderie. It’s thrilling, and peaceful, and frightening, all at the same time.

Just know that as God sweeps you along the river of this life, he is perched like a confident guide on the back of the raft–steering, cheering, and protecting–ready to lead you safely through those rapids he’s shot a million times.

Trust your guide and enjoy the ride!

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.” Psalm 5:11 (NIV)

“We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NV)