The Only Way Over is Through by Johnny Trail

In life, we often pray for a way around the hard things. We ask God to remove the mountain, to quiet the storm, to change the circumstance. And sometimes, by His mercy, He does.

 

But often, God doesn't lead us around the fire—He walks us through it.

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me..." (Psalm 23:4)

That word through is crucial. It means we’re not stuck. It means there’s another side. But it also means the path forward isn’t avoidance—it’s endurance. Faith doesn't skip the valley. It just keeps walking.

 We’re not promised a life without trouble. Jesus Himself said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

There is no shortcut to spiritual maturity. No bypass to peace. No fast track to character. These are formed through the trials we wish we could skip. It’s in the wrestle, in the pressing, in the surrender—where the real transformation happens.

God refines us in the process. Not when it’s over. Not when it’s easy. In the middle of it.

 

You can’t climb over what God designed to shape you.

You can’t pray away what He intends to use.

You can’t rush what He’s building in you for eternity.

 

But here’s the good news: you never go through it alone.

The same God who calls you into the storm is the One who calms it.

The same Shepherd who leads you through the valley is the One Who sets a table before your enemies. 

So, take heart. Don’t fear the road that looks hard. Don’t despise the struggle that makes you strong. If you're facing something today and wondering why it's so difficult—know this:

 

The only way over is through.

But you won’t be walking alone.