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Finding Solid Foundations Amid Life's Loose Rocks: A Personal Journey of Faith, Healing, and Flourishing

Writer's picture: Loren Loren




loose rocks on the hike of life


Imagine hiking on a rugged mountain trail. The air is crisp, and the views are breathtaking. Yet, as you navigate loose rocks underfoot, each step feels uncertain. You’re caught between appreciating the stunning vistas and the pressing need to maintain balance.


This scenario mirrors many life experiences—relationships, faith, and the unpredictable paths we walk. The rocky terrain symbolizes our challenges, while the view represents our dreams and the joy that lies ahead.


Throughout my own journey, I have realized that our past experiences shape our present desires and future goals. Here’s how my path has developed, along with a practical framework for establishing a strong foundation while pursuing a better vision.


Finding Sturdy Support


I love to hike in the fall, with the images of leaves changing colors as I make my way through a trail, the temperature usually a little breezy and slightly warm. Hiking trails often have a mix of dirt, tree branches, leaves, and rocks to add to the navigation. I remember hiking in the Smoky Mountains one year—the views of the mountaintops rolling among the changing leaves left me mesmerized. The views were so tempting, I had to pay special attention to where I was stepping—a difficult task when I wanted to look up at all the spectacular views. While I was looking up, there were a few loose rocks below my feet that gave way. Even though I had on the proper hiking boots and chose a trail to my skill level, I lost my balance and stumbled a little. My reflexes quickly kicked in, and I grabbed onto the nearest tree—fortunately this tree had sturdy roots, and I was able to recalibrate my balance. But next to the strong tree was a flimsy tree that couldn’t have helped me if I reached out for it—I would have easily fallen and either uprooted the tree or broken off its branches.


When you find yourself in a shaky part of life and you go to grab the nearest support, what will you find? If you’ve placed your hope and built your life on Christ, the Holy Spirit will help support you in any difficulty. If you have built your life on the false hope of the world, or butterflies, or passion, you may find that those things won’t be able to offer the lasting support needed during trials.


Through my divorce and life, I've learned how God’s faithfulness and a firm foundation overcomes "loose rock" moments in life. He's like the sturdy tree you grab for support. He's proven that that you can stand firm on a solid foundation in Him, ready to face the next challenge or mountain.


Understanding Loose Rocks and Solid Faith Foundations


In life, we encounter loose rocks—distractions and doubts that can lead us astray. They often look like this:


  • The temptation of quick fixes that provide empty promises.

  • Overcommitting to activities that distract us from important goals.

  • Persistent doubts that undermine our sense of worth and purpose.

  • Rushing ahead when you get frazzled or frustrated.

  • Losing focus on what matters most.


In contrast, firm foundations are built on deep-rooted faith, intentional habits, and a commitment to Christ. I’ve realized the importance of practical steps such as daily prayer, immersing myself in Scripture, and building a supportive community that inspires growth.


Just like hiking, finding solid footing in life empowers us to navigate challenges confidently and makes the path to the view possible.


A Clear Framework for Flourishing

How can you build your life on a firm foundation instead of loose rocks? Let's compare it with how you would prepare for a hike.


Set the Destination


When you go for a hike, you want to know where you are going. How long is the route, are their bathrooms, access to water, what is the terrain, where are the picture perfect stops?


In life, you also want to know where you're going. Having an effective goal must be clear. Without articulating where you want to go, you risk drifting aimlessly like a hiker without a map. In faith, the Holy Spirit is your guide. He knows the best routes and is the ultimate planner of getting you safely to your destination.


Pack the Essentials for the Journey


Once you know where you're going on a hike, it will impact how you pack. Do you need to dress in layers, bring a backpack, have a water bottle (or two)? Different trails may have different needs. Maybe it's a quick loop. Maybe it's several hours with the option of making a wrong turn. Pack appropriately.


In life, you want to make sure you have the essentials. In the Bible, that's the Armor of God that we discover in Ephesians and consists of the:


  • Belt of Truth

  • Breastplate of Righteousness

  • Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

  • Shield of Faith 

  • Helmet of Salvation

  • Sword of the Spirit


Celebrate the Views along the way


When you hike, you want to take in the spots along the way. Maybe it's a scenic view, or an animal or plant, or maybe you need to stop in order to rest, catch your breath, or drink some water.


In life, you want to do the same: to reflect on progress and small victories, and celebrate every step along the way. There will be times when you stop because you are celebrating, but there are also times where you will need to stop to rest your soul and nourish it with the Word of God.


Growth happens collectively; it requires vulnerability and faith.


Embracing Challenges and Opportunities


Looking back on my journey, I see a rich tapestry of triumphs and challenges shaped by God’s hand. Just as loose rocks create obstacles along a trail, life will always present uncertainties. However, by establishing a steadfast foundation in faith, defining clear goals, and seeking meaningful growth, you can navigate these challenges with grace.


Let us hold fast to hope and strive for the views that await. The mountains may be steep, but we can conquer them, step by step, supporting one another along the way.


In our journey of faith, we can flourish—hearts healed, dreams realized, and hope strengthened. Solid ground exists among life’s loose rocks, and you can reach it by trusting God through the loose rock moments and seeking the firm foundation only He provides.



 


If you're looking for solid ground to stand on during turbulent times of separation, divorce, or relationship struggles, my book Wings to Rise above Divorce will help you navigate the journey with God.

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