Faith is an Adventure: Lessons from the Appalachian Trail

Twelve years ago today, I took my first step on the 2,200-mile journey of the Appalachian Trail. I had no idea what was ahead—just a backpack on my shoulders, a long path stretching before me, and a deep desire to keep moving forward.

What I didn’t realize was how much that journey would mirror my walk with Christ. Years later, I saw how my experiences on the trail connected to faith. Like a long-distance hike, following Jesus is an adventure full of challenges, unexpected turns, and breathtaking moments of growth.

Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way:

1. Every Journey Has Unexpected Turns

On the Appalachian Trail, I faced injuries, storms, steep climbs, and moments when I wasn’t sure where I was going. Sometimes things just don’t go as planned. But I discovered that those delays often set me up for divine appointments. For example, a blistered foot that slowed me down allowed me to meet a hiker behind me on the trail who needed to hear about Jesus.

Proverbs 16:9 reminds us: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”

Even when life feels uncertain, God is guiding you. Trust Him, even when you can’t see the full path ahead.

2. Perseverance is Built Step by Step

Some days on the trail were exhausting. My feet were blistered, my legs ached bad, and quitting seemed like an easy option. But the only way to finish was to keep taking the next step.

Faith is like that. Some days, you might feel tired or discouraged. Maybe you’re struggling to hear God’s voice or wondering if following Him is worth it. But every step—every prayer, every act of trust—builds strength.

James 1:2-3 says: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Keep going. God is growing you in the process.

3. You Can’t Do It Alone

On the trail, I met hikers and kind strangers who encouraged me, helped me, and walked alongside me. The Christian life isn’t meant to be a solo journey either. We need people who will challenge us, pray for us, and remind us of God’s truth.

Hebrews 10:24-25 tells us: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”

Find a community of believers who will walk with you. And be that kind of friend to others.

4. The Hardest Climbs Often Lead to the Best Views

Some of the most difficult parts of my hike led to the most incredible mountaintop views. In the moment, the uphill climb felt brutal, but when I reached the top, I realized it was worth it.

In life, the hardest seasons often lead to the greatest growth. The struggles you face—whether in friendships, family, school, work or your faith—are shaping you into who God has called you to be.

Romans 8:28 reminds us: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Trust that God is using even the hard seasons for something greater.

5. God Speaks in the Stillness

One of my favorite moments on the Appalachian Trail was sitting on a mountaintop at sunrise or sunset, just listening. No distractions. No noise. Just God’s presence in His creation.

Life is loud. Social media, school, work—there’s always something filling our minds. But if we never slow down, we might miss God’s voice.

Psalm 46:10 says: “Be still, and know that I am God.”

Take time to be still. Open your Bible. Pray. Go for a walk and just listen. God is speaking—you just have to make space to hear Him.

6. Your Journey Has a Purpose

When I started hiking, I thought it was just for 6 months. But looking back, I see how God was using it to prepare me for something bigger—to one day encourage others in their faith through Be The 25 Podcast and speaking engagements.

You may not see it now, but God is writing a story through your life. The struggles, the joys, the moments that don’t make sense—He’s using all of it for a greater purpose.

Psalm 37:23 reminds us: “The steps of a righteous man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in their way.”

God is leading you somewhere meaningful. Keep trusting Him.

7. Faith is the Greatest Adventure

Following Jesus isn’t always easy, but it’s the greatest journey you’ll ever take. When you trust Him, He will lead you to places you never imagined. He will grow you, challenge you, and show you His goodness in ways you never expected.

2 Corinthians 5:7: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

So keep walking. Keep trusting. The adventure is worth it.

Keep Walking by Faith

The Appalachian Trail taught me that every step—whether on rocky paths or smooth terrain—mattered. The same is true in our walk with Christ. There will be challenges, but also incredible moments of growth and glimpses of God’s faithfulness. Keep moving forward, even when the way is hard. Trust that God is leading you, one step at a time. Because in the end, faith isn’t just a part of life—it’s the greatest adventure you’ll ever take.