In fact, most of us on the ride were expecting rough roads like the ones we’ve been experiencing the last few days: cracked chip seal and rough shoulders that disintegrate into gravel—the kind that rattle your teeth and sometimes rattle your brain.

But, instead, we had a totally different kind of experience: smooth roads and even some roads that looked and felt like they had just recently been paved. What a difference the surface can make on a 77+ mile day!

Being able to relax a little more and not having to contend with cracks, debris, and disappearing shoulders meant we had more time to take in the scenery and enjoy the ride.

From Isaiah 45:2 we’re reminded that God says, “I will go before you and make the rough places smooth…” It doesn’t mean that we won’t travel down some broken roads or endure some bumps and rough situations along the way. But God’s promise is that he will be with us and abide in us.

From Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. “

God assures us the rough roads we encounter in life won’t last and smoother ones will lie ahead. He will be with us, always,