Never walk in darkness

By James A. Washington | St. Louis American

I have at times talked a little about “Faith Walk,” and it dawned on me that I have also questioned just what that meant. Maybe you can explain it better than me.

Some claimed to see a transformation in me as I have come to Christ. Others have said, “As you go through this walk.” Obviously, I’ve used the term myself when trying to explain my different view of the world when seen through a new pair of spiritualized eyes. The whole experience has been and continues to be extremely dynamic.

I’m just curious about the “walk” reference. I suppose when you think about it, many in the bible had truth revealed to them on a walk or, on a journey. God has seen fit to communicate to many a saint while they were going from one place to another, or, even through the spiritual travel of a dream. It’s a simple enough analogy.

What is more meaningful than a walk or a trip with someone whom you respect, admire, love or can learn something from? One of my most memorable things to do was to go for a walk with my children when they were toddlers. There was something about them discovering and exploring the world around them with absolutely no fear, because they knew I was there. Today, I can go anywhere with my wife. It really is the journey and not the destination for me.

That might be why people refer to discovering God as “walking in faith.” Factually stated, the effort to get closer to God requires movement. I think the walking analogy is merely a human attempt to speak to that movement in a spiritual direction. The best example is of course Enoch.

“Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.” Genesis 5:24. What a blessed way to go.

Beginning your spiritual journey can best be described as taking the first step towards truth. Once taken, your life changes forever. You change. I know I did. So I guess this faith walk thing is merely a public or in some cases a private acknowledgement that one is letting God order your steps in this, His world. If you do this, God will lead you right to Him.

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” John 8:12.

So when you get up in the morning, think about this and let God order your steps. Make a deliberate effort to listen and hear where God is telling you to go, or not to go.

They say faith comes by hearing. What better way to hear than by taking a stroll with the Lord. If you are seeking Him, He is very easy to find. All it takes is that first baby step.