by Joel Raygor and Dean Hulce
James 1:2-4
Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Joel and Les drew archery tags for antelope in an east central Wyoming unit that year. Phone calls were made and letters mailed in hopes of finding a ranch to hunt. Finally they had a few solid leads, so they headed west to scout and secure a spot for their September hunt.
The surface of the ranch roads in that area were made up of sharp rock that was similar to flint. Within the first few miles they had gotten their first flat tire. After a tire change they only made it another mile and had flat number two. They drove on the rim until they reached a rancher who helped them out with a spare.
Before the three day scouting trip was done, they had a total of seven flats. When they got home, they bought a set of heavy sidewall tires that were used on their antelope hunt and on many other hunts for years to follow. In spite of their tire problems, they remained optimistic and had a fun and successful scouting trip. Three weeks later both hunters headed back out west and filled tags with two beautiful mature antelope bucks.
We've heard it said, "Life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% of how you react to it." All those flats weren't one of their favorite hunting memories, but it has made for a great story and is a reminder that sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.
Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, those that are called according to His purposes"
God knows what's down the road, even when we don't. There's no greater comfort than knowing God is with us. His presence dispels fear and He promises His strength, help, and support in the process.
Deuteronomy 31:8
And the LORD is the one who is going ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not desert you or abandon you. Do not fear and do not be dismayed.
Trust that God knows the path ahead and He has your best laid out for you.
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