Meandering in Our Journey by Bermie Dizon

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There’s a common perception that a straight path is the only way forward, that if we aren’t moving directly toward our goals, we must be lost. But life doesn’t always follow a straight line. Sometimes, we find ourselves meandering—taking detours, exploring new paths, and pausing along the way.

In these moments, it’s easy to feel like we’re off course, like we’ve lost our way. But what if these meanderings are not signs of being lost, but rather opportunities to listen, meditate, and enjoy God’s creation?

Now that I’m retired, I’ve found more time to take walks. When I walk, I intentionally decide not to have a fixed direction. One of my favorite places to visit is the Los Angeles Arboretum, a vast park in the heart of Los Angeles County. When I enter the park, I allow my feet to lead me wherever they will.

Meandering lets us move at a pace that allows us to notice things we might otherwise overlook. The vibrant colors of a sunset, the gentle rustling of leaves, or the Holy Spirit’s quiet promptings are treasures often missed if we’re too focused on getting from point A to point B. But when we meander, we slow down, breathe, and start to see the world through God’s eyes. At the Arboretum, I’ve discovered plants and flowers I had never seen before. Each visit feels like a small adventure, and I love it!

Whenever I meander, I stop to examine my discoveries. I take the time to smell the flowers or even the leaves. In the Australian section of the Arboretum, there are dozens of eucalyptus trees, each with its own unique scent. Some smell like mint, others like medicine, and one even smells like asphalt. On one of my walks, I stumbled upon a tree nestled among others, bearing fruits I had never seen before. A sign beneath it identified it as a Rose Apple. Curious, I picked one and smelled it—it had the fragrance of a rose. After a quick search on Google, I found out it was edible, so I took a bite. It tasted like an apple, reminiscent of the Filipino “makopa.” Such is the blessing of meandering; I discover new things all the time.

These walks are also a time for reflection, and as I ponder, I often discover new things within myself. Meditation during these moments brings inspiration and insight.

Consider the Israelites in the wilderness. Were they truly lost, or did God purposely cause them to meander? Is it possible that their journey to the Promised Land took forty years, not because they were lost, but because God was teaching them, shaping them, and revealing Himself to them? Their path was winding, filled with moments of doubt and faith, disobedience and grace. Yet through it all, God was with them, leading them even when the way seemed unclear.

In our own lives, meandering can be a time of deep spiritual growth. It’s in the pauses and detours that we often hear God’s voice most clearly. We learn to trust His timing, to find joy in the present moment, and to appreciate the beauty of the journey, not just the destination.

So, when you find yourself meandering, don’t rush to get back on the “right” path. Instead, embrace the opportunity to listen to God, to meditate on His Word, and to enjoy the wonders of His creation. Remember that even when the path seems unclear, God is guiding your steps. You are not lost; you are exactly where He wants you to be.

Life’s journey is not always a straight line, but it is always under the guidance of our loving God. Trust that every detour, every pause, and every meander is part of His perfect plan to draw you closer to Him and to reveal more of His presence in your life.

“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9 (ESV)

Excerpted from “God In Every Step” available now at Amazon.com. Bermie Dizon is a husband, father, grandfather and retired pastor living in Southern California.