My family spends a lot of time outdoors. Hiking is of our favorite things to do on vacation. God created so much beauty in the world and it’s easy to pass it by when you’re riding in a car checking messages on your phone. Hiking, especially up a mountain, forces you to slow your pace, to watch your steps, and to be in tune with nature. You notice unusual trees, mushrooms, chipmunks, and salamanders. You hear each bird call, hear the rustle in the trees that may mean a deer (or a bear) is nearby. You feel the breeze through your hair or the raindrops tickling your skin. When you reach the summit, you are rewarded for your climb by a panorama of beauty. Sure, there may be easier ways to get to the top, but life is often about the journey. Some of our best conversations have occurred on hikes, but other times, we’re silent, alone in our thoughts. Those are times when God speaks to me most clearly, when I allow all the busyness to fade away, and simply think about where each step will take me. I’m thankful God gave me the strength to climb the mountains, and even more thankful for the family he gave me to share the adventure. It may not be by climbing a mountain, but I pray that you’ll be able to find a quiet place and spend one-on-one time with God soon.

God continually teaches me new things. Each week I write a short story to share with my readers. If you’d like to receive these free devotionals, you can sign up to receive them at www.karenmalley.com.