For we walk by faith, not by sight. 
2 Corinthians 5:7 

My husband took a trip to the library with our seven year old daughter.  When they left to enter the parking lot it was dark and their hands were filled with books.  My husband told her to stay so close that she would be touching him, since she could not hold onto his hand as she normally would in a parking lot.  As she followed closely she seen a car coming slowly across the parking lot instead of trusting that her Father would take her safely to the car she began to back up in between two parked cars.  She went from the safety of her Father to a potentially dangerous situation. My husband did quickly turn to check to see that she was there and encouraged her to continue to walk with Him.  If she would have not been confronted with the obstacles and had a clear path to the car she would have followed her father without hesitation but as soon as she got sight of possible danger she retreated.  When we are following God as He leads us across the parking lot  we are fine as long as we are loving those who are loveable, the bills are all paid, and it is our best friend who needs the favor not a stranger.  When we are confronted with situations that are not pleasant we many times retreat and lose faith in where our Father is leading us.  We will remain safe wherever we are as long as we are walking in His shadow and are close enough to touch Him. 

Prayer 

Jesus, it doesn't matter which direction the path takes I am following in Your shadow. Help me to keep my eyes on you and not to be distracted when confronted with un-pleasant things or fear of danger. Thank you for always encouraging me to stay close. I trust that you will always lead me safely.  I lay my life before You and accept with a joyful heart wherever you are taking me.  In Your name I ask. 

Amen.