Welcome to Wilco Wednesday! If you are a new around these parts, “Wilco” is Army-speak for “Will Comply.” Think of it as saying “Roger, God. Got it. Will do.”  So that is what Wednesday here at 7 Days Time is all about– exploring his decrees and seeking guidance for what complying with Him looks like in everyday life. The best part? He loves us for who we are, not what we do.  Remember: He doesn’t want perfection, just obedience. Share. Enjoy. Interact. Let’s welcome this strong, creative woman of God, Katharina as she shares her heart this week. 
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I love trails.  I just love being surrounded by God’s beautiful creation, no matter if I walk, hike, or run them. Last week, I went for a trail run and while I was running God reminded me how my life’s path is similar to a trail. When I am on the trail, I am only able to see the things that are a short distance in front of me. Before long, the path takes a turn and I lose sight of what comes next, like a steep incline or maybe a fallen tree.

Life is the same way. I think I am on the right path, I have it all figured out, I know where I am going and then the path takes an unexpected turn. I must be careful to keep my footing, so I do not stumble.

Life is unexpected. We can only see what is before us and it takes a steady foot to keep us going on an uneven path. How can we avoid tripping? As a trail runner, I have learned that I need to strengthen my core as well as leg muscles, especially my hips so I do not lose my balance easily on roots or stones.

In our spiritual walk, we need to strengthen our footing as well. We do this by strengthening our faith muscles and seeking God’s guidance/direction in every aspect of our lives. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 says “But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul. When we are in distress and all these things have come upon us, in the latter days we will return to the LORD our God and listen to His voice. For the LORD our God is a compassionate God; He will not fail us nor destroy us nor forget the covenant with our fathers which He swore to them”.

How can we know that we are on the right path when we are not able to see the finish line ahead of us? Paul writes in his letter to the Church of Corinth:

“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” ~1 Corinthians 9:24-27

In addition, we should “lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV).

Paul states in the race of life we should discipline our bodies and be submissive to God’s word and His path for us, making our “fleshly desires” our slaves through discipline and self-control. Furthermore, when we are willing to listen to God’s word and obey His commandments, He will make sure that we stay on the right path He has chosen for us.

I encourage you to examine your path and answer one or more of the following questions in the comments below.

• Are you walking on the path God has intended for you?
• Are you walking in your own path or are you taking a detour through the woods?
• What action plan can you develop to get back onto the path God has chosen for you?

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” ~Psalm 119:105

Katharina is a military spouse and a stay at home mom of a 7 year old and a 5 year old. She homeschools her two children and she is a life coach with www.well-springs-lifecoaching.com. She coaches women in life balance, relationships, health and fitness, and personal goal setting.

In addition, Katharina volunteers her time with www.VetREST.org, an organization that is passionate about helping Veterans and their families experience peace from the inner battle with PTS. Furthermore, Katharina is being trained in inner healing prayer with Aurora Worldwide. In her free time, Katharina loves to run, bike, hike, and swim (anything outdoors). She loves to read and spend time with her family.