You have a same choice – be overwhelmed by circumstances, or trust God to help me see the options and overcome the obstacles.

The wind was powerful. It was the kind of breeze that was strong enough to rock the car as we drove. And completely destroy any hairdo subjected to its force! My daughter and I were enjoying the beauty of the beach. The white sand and gorgeous blue-green waters seemed almost tropical. Yellow flags along the coast warned swimmers to take caution while in the water. And we were advised to avoid the strong rip current.

High overhead, colorful shapes dotted the sky. They appeared to be enormous kites. But as they moved closer to us, we saw cables running from the sails down to men on surfboards. Kite surfers. Instead of bemoaning the fact that conditions weren’t ideal for swimming, these guys had determined to take advantage of the wind and enjoy the opportunity to speed effortlessly across the surface of the water.

A light bulb moment. How many times do I allow myself to be discouraged from doing something because things don’t line up as I think they should? These kite surfers were driving home a point. It was true that due to the wind, swimming was a poor choice, but the wind was creating the perfect opportunity to kite surf!

Oftentimes in life, I have a plan sketched out in my mind of how I’m going to accomplish something. When circumstances don’t occur exactly as I think they should, I’m stymied, and stop dead in my tracks. I see the obstacles rather than focusing on the options. Can anyone relate?

The kite surfers reminded me of a valuable truth. There are always options. If I’m willing to seek God’s direction every step of the way, He will show me how He wants me to proceed; whether it’s a minor tweak in plans or climbing the obstacle that’s before me.

Remember the story of Mary? A girl intent on doing the will of God. Things were going well. She was engaged to Joseph, a respected carpenter, and she was thrilled to be planning the details of their wedding. Then it happened. And everything changed. An angel appeared to her with some pretty shocking news, “Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus, ” (Luke 1:30-31; KJV).

We all know the story. But think about the stigma attached to an unwed mother in those days. At best, she could attempt to hide the pregnancy, at worst, she would be stoned to death. And what about her wedding plans? Surely Joseph wouldn’t want to marry her now! No doubt, a multitude of questions plagued Mary. Yet she chose to respond with the following words, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word…” (Luke 1:38). She demonstrated her trust in God, confident that He would help her overcome every obstacle in her path.

I have the same choice – be overwhelmed by circumstances, or trust God to help me see the options and overcome the obstacles.

Where is your focus today? On obstacles or options? Choose to trust the One who is able to help you overcome!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for this simple lesson learned from some kite surfers. When I face obstacles, help me to seek You. As You reveal Your will, help me to follow in obedience. Thank You for guiding me one step at a time. In Jesus’ name, Amen.