The prompt by Joann S. on July 16, 2026: Two friends get lost in a huge forest. They try to find their way out, but it’s been 2 days and they are scared, tired, thirsty. Even worse, one is getting paranoid and suspects their friend is deceiving them about being lost. Anxiety sets in as the disturbing thought  registers. “Is this his  revenge for an old argument we never resolved?” Write about the moment one person discovers what they think is undeniable evidence that their friend is lying. How does it all end?

Micah and John, close as brothers since childhood went hiking among the heights of the Klamath Mountains. They crossed rugged terrain, with diverse ecosystems, as they both enjoyed a rich geological history. Knowing that it is a far stretch to reach Mount Shasta, they did not intend to hike that far. Even though Shasta is famous and considered to be a sacred site by native tribes, they surmised that they had entered the Trinity Alps.  A subrange of the Klamath Mountains, known for its stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and camping sites along the lakes. The map that John brought included the nearby Siskiyou Mountains, a Coastal Range, which runs parallel to the Pacific Ocean. With the smell of the ocean  in the air, simultaneously the friends innately knew they had gone too far.

Without confessing their fears to one another, they both wrestled privately. As darkness consumed their first day on the trail, with a confident voice John boldly declared that tomorrow they would enter a place of majesty. Micah silently questioned his boast. As the sun sunk behind the ridge, his mind returned to an unresolved argument over the direction John recently took. John had lied to himself and Micah that his abrupt move was to only improve provision for his family. “Shall I trust that he knows where we are headed?”  Micah built a fire on their second night in the wild. After their evening fish fry, Micah gently asked John, “How are things going?”

John openly confessed his fear that he may have been selfish and hasty in his choice to take a job that left his family stunned. Micah did not give advice, he just looked at John with great compassion in his eyes. As friends, they both respected the deep confidences that had been shared through the many years. Both had their hearts pierced by tragedy. It is easy to pause all criticism, when we admit our own  foolish choices of the past. 

On the 3rd morning of their adventure, Micah got up early to fish for food and to inquire of God. “Lord, I believe we are both lost, and we both need Your direction on how to proceed.” AMEN –  In his deep soul reflection, the Lord reminded Micah of the time when he was full of anxiety after a serious health scare. Choices were made and words were spoken that caused injury to his loved ones.  Pride often prevents a mere human soul from quickly admitting mistakes. Bitterness does boil up until we remember the humility of Jesus on the cross. “Forgive them Father, for they know not the hurt they cause in what they do and speak.” Oh boy, do I ever need to repent of my unspoken resentment.

At lunch, after Micah had chewed on a few truths and old memories, he was ready to transparently talk to John. Micah told John that he was hesitant to trust him by taking the suggested route to get back home safely. Micah also admitted that for a brief moment he had suspected John of leading him off trail to put intentional fear in his heart. At that very moment, John reached to grab his friend and give him a hug of relief. The Holy Spirit of God had worked in both hearts to cause such a reconciliation.

Just as John had prophesied, the friends entered a divine place of God’s majesty. The very place that God had pre ordained and prepared.  Home in Him, together.

“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” I believe that no harm shall overtake the righteousness God gives. Our Lord delights in our trust in Him. Prv 12:18

In the midst of a rumbling heart, we get to read the transparent biographies of ordinary souls that show the struggle and the fruit of Proverbs 22:6.  Billie Graham , John Wesley and George Whitefield each had their doubts and goof ups. When we reflect on the lives of others we agree with the wisdom of Solomon. “There is nothing new under the sun.” Using simple language during each trial in life, we pause to truly listen as the conflicted soul offers their perception. Then we gently insert a personal example of when we learned a hard lesson.   Our respectful transparency when sharing a scene from our life, makes us a safe haven. How has Holy Spirit’s guidance made a difference in our life? Relatable stories shared out of mercy tend to bring the light of God in every situation, every time. In this life our Father promised us that we would face challenges, but never alone without Wisdom. Life in Christ is way better as we choose to trust in God, and not in our ever changing  human emotions. Dust off your Bible and seek God’s superior way. He is ever available 24/7. No appointment required.

The Parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 teaches kindness and love towards ourselves and others. We teach best by simply acting justly as we demonstrate the value of applying God’s word.  By responding with kindness, practicing honesty, we handle conflict calmly. We all learn a lot from observing how others regained the peace of God in difficult circumstances. Ask questions to learn how the other person thinks. With ears to hear, we listen more and speak less.  Discuss the insights they revealed. Then ask how they can face Jesus with a pure, and lovely heart each new day as He loves forgiveness, justice and mercy.

Always seek to reinforce the expressed hopes and dreams of friends that desire to please God. Value the goodness of honesty.  Praise others for all good choices. Our personally voiced blunders will connect listening hearts to what Jesus taught His ever stumbling, imperfect followers. Ask for feedback. Discuss any hard held beliefs.  Offer to pray together and invite the Holy Spirit to shed His light to guide any unsettled matter. Faults Unknown

The Spirit of God is moving in His Church. Jesus quoted Isaiah in His hometown. “I’ve come to set the captives free.” We were freed, delivered from death into eternal life for accepting the gift of faith to BELIEVE in the finished work of Jesus. The excuse of being unprepared, or too old or tired was answered by His living and active Word. We cry out for mercy, wisdom, and discernment. We trust in the Lord for His strength and a fresh anointing. The fire of our God consumes all our fears and doubts that He will finish what He began in each welcoming soul. Lord, here we are, equipped by the Holy Spirit, and fully submitted. It is our privilege to be in service of the King of kings. Holy Spirit is ever at work in us and through each resurrected saint. Jesus is returning soon as Ezekiel 38 is in the news in the final week of July 2026. When Moses led the captives out of slavery, some chose to pitch a tent and stay comfortable. NOW is the time to be fearless and speak TRUTH. With unwavering FAITH we unite to be bold and approach the throne of grace for increased faith in He who dwells within.  AMEN

A desire of my heart is to use my gift of writing to edify, encourage others on their journey of faith in Jesus Christ. Glory to God for He is ever faithful. SUAW gathers writers together for instruction.

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