Between a Bison and a Hard Place
When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it won’t be a dead end—Because I am God, your personal God…so don’t be afraid: I’m with you. Isaiah 43:3, 4 & 5 MSG
Recently while hiking in Yellowstone, my husband and I found ourselves—quite literally—caught between the proverbial rock and a hard place when a massive bison greeted us on our designated trail. This was simultaneously awesome and scary.
Our big problem: the bison made it abundantly clear that he had no intention of moving. This then left us with three options:
1. Attempt to pass him on the trail, hoping not to provoke or disturb him.
2. Quietly retreat and descend the mountain, forfeiting the remainder of our hike.
3. Seek an alternate route around him and continue our journey.
We quickly ruled out the first option, deciding it was too risky. The second felt like defeat. So, we went with option three—and thankfully, it worked. We not only completed our hike safely, but we also had an adventure we’ll never forget!
I shared this unique, semi-amusing story as it served to remind me, as I hope it does you, that life presents us all with challenges of varying degrees on a regular basis. At times, they’re lighthearted, like ours. Other times, they’re deeply serious.
The truth is, throughout our life’s journey, we will continue to face dilemmas, some that are only mildly uncomfortable or inconvenient, yet others that are incredibly hard and hurtful. This unfortunately, is a sobering part of life in this world. And although we’re not granted a pass from life’s difficult decisions, we are in fact offered something far more powerful—God’s presence with us in every moment of uncertainty.
Additionally, Scripture has trustworthy promises, offering guidance, wisdom, counsel, and encouragement. These truths are anchors we can hold onto when life presents us with dilemmas, both big and small.
Here are just a few we can lean into when the path ahead feels unclear:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart…. Remember [Him] in everything you do, and he will show you the right way.” Proverbs 3:5 & 6 GNT
“If any of you lacks wisdom [[for] a decision or circumstance], he should ask our benevolent] God… and it will be given to him.” James 1:6 AMP
“The Lord says, ‘I will teach you the way you should go; I will instruct you and advise you.’” Psalm 32:8 GNT
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21 NIV
So today, if you find yourself facing a “bison” of your own, physically, spiritually, relationally, financially, emotionally, or in some other way, take heart knowing God is with you. His Promises are for you. His Word will guide you and His Spirit will empower you with wisdom and counsel in making the best possible decision for your life.
Pray
Father God, thank You for being my refuge, my strength, and my ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). When I find myself between a rock and a hard place—unsure of which way to turn—I’m grateful that I can come to You. You are faithful to guide, willing to counsel, and always near. Even when the path ahead seems uncertain, Your presence is my steady anchor. I trust You to lead me, to walk with me, and to hold me through every decision and dilemma. You are completely faithful, consistently trustworthy, and endlessly good.
Please accept my heartfelt praise and gratitude.
In Jesus’s name, amen.
Reflect
When was the last time you faced a challenging decision? What was it? What steps did you lean into (i.e., prayer, Scripture, godly community) in making a decision?
Friends, I’d love to hear your experience! Feel free to share your responses in the comment section below, or with me and others HERE!