In the mid 1800s wagon trains began to make their way across what is now the United States to that far away land of California. The Stevens wagon train made a safe crossing of the frontier in 1844. They had a great leader in Elisha Stevens. They faced uncharted lands, filled with great dangers. They made a safe crossing because of their excellent leader.

Other wagon trains were not so fortunate such as the Donner group. Because of their poor leadership the crossing ended in disaster with 70 people dying. They were even warned once by, Joseph Walker, one of the ablest mountain men in America, that they were on the wrong path.

Life is much like a frontier. It is filled with unknowns. None of us knows what tomorrow holds. How much easier it would be if we had a guide, if we had a map. But we do! The Bible tells us in Proverbs 3:1-2, "My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life and peace they will add to you." And in Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

The Bible is our map and the Lord is our guide, but even the best map will not help if it is never opened. Even the best guide in America did not help the Donner group because they would not listen to him. Jesus is the ultimate guide and leader. Are you listening?