The Trail by Ed Underwood



Besides loving the beauty of this Southern Californian trail, I had the chance to learn an important and Godly lesson. It is one I've not put to use in my life. Well, not like Ed Underwood puts it to use in his life. This ex-fire fighter and now pastor takes a young couple named Matt and Brenda under his earthly wing and teaches them how to make an important decision in their life. The lesson will serve at this point in their life and for the rest of their lives. The lesson is really how to lean on God and less on our personal wit and wisdom. Whatever way it is worded, the lesson is how to know God's Will in life. Then, how to trust God and walk behind Him and not in front of Him. God never needs our leadership skills. We are His students.

Matt and Brenda are a married couple. Each have their way of approaching God in difficult decisions. Ed Underwood, a staunch man of God, immediately sizes up the pattern of their personalities. In my eyes, Brenda seemed like the stronger Christian. She is quick to listen, accept and admit her waywardness. While Matt seems a bit more frightened of walking with God. Afraid to let his hands off the controls of his life. 

However, this is where I didn't quite understand Ed Underwood. I thought he seemed to come down harder on Matt. For a few pages, I thought he wanted to pick on the young man. However, I soon let go of my reasoning. I had to believe that Mr. Underwood really had God's ear. That meant how he handled Matt and what he said to Matt was perfect for that moment in time. 

The walk on the trail is inspiring because of its beauty. More inspiring are the campfire talks given every so often during the walk. On the way Ed Underwood gave eight basic lessons for Matt and Brenda to use in order to know God's Will for their lives. However,  the surprise comes when Ed Underwood opens up and shows he has flaws too. He is not just a teacher. He is a flawed man. He humbly asks the couple to tell him where they feel he needs to grow in his life. 

What a moment! Also, there is an inspiring moment when Brenda hears Ed praying a personal prayer. Next, there is a gigantic finish to The Trail by Ed Underwood. I really feared for their lives.  This is a practical Christian Living book. It is about faith, the love for our God and also, about family and friends. 

Along the way on the trail, Brenda took pictures and drew in her sketchbook. I would have loved to have seen photos in the book. There is not one. I'm not sure why. During the moment of danger did those sketches get lost or were they damaged by heat and smoke? 

While reading the book, I learned to think of God's guidance and not guiding myself, I hope that lesson of faith will remain with me. The eight principles are written simply and in an interesting way. It is not like your sitting down to learn something from the Bible. It is like God is taking you for a walk through nature and sharing his precious Word along the way. The books gives a picture of Him as Father and Friend. This is one of those books where each reading will be like a fine, new course in a meal.  http://edunderwood.com/

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