Quick Links & Quiet Faith

Have you ever met someone who seems so in tune with God that it’s like they have a direct hotline to Him? It’s as if God is orchestrating their every move, like a divine puppeteer pulling the strings in a perfect children’s play. You can’t help but wonder how they do it—how they seem to hear Him so clearly while you’re left straining to catch even a whisper.

Maybe you don’t believe in God, or maybe you’re new to your faith and still trying to figure it all out. Or perhaps you’ve grown up in church and are well-acquainted with the idea of God.

Wherever you are, you’ve likely encountered someone like this—their life seems to be a highlight reel of open doors, golden opportunities, and thriving moments.

But what about you? You’re standing there, watching it all unfold, feeling like their triumphs are mocking your struggles. While they’re out there flourishing, you’re stuck waiting—waiting for something that feels so small and insignificant in comparison. It’s frustrating. It feels like there’s a disconnect, like something’s missing, and you can’t quite figure out what it is.

Let’s take a quick detour—stay with me. Cyclists, whether they’re beginners or seasoned pros, often carry a small but essential tool in their repair kits: a missing chain link. Why? Because on long rides over unpredictable terrain, a broken chain can bring everything to a grinding halt. Without that little link, they’re stranded, unable to move forward. Casual riders, however, rarely carry one—they assume they can rely on a nearby bike shop if something goes wrong. But for those venturing miles away from civilization, the missing link is nothing short of a lifeline. It’s quick to use, doesn’t require extra tools, and provides the peace of mind every cyclist craves. Beyond emergencies, it even makes regular maintenance easier, allowing the chain to be removed for cleaning, which helps keep the bike running smoothly and extends the life of the drivetrain.

Here’s what makes the missing link so special: First, it’s a perfect fit—it bridges the broken section of the chain seamlessly, restoring its function. Without it, the entire chain becomes useless, no matter how many other links remain intact. Second, the missing link simplifies repairs. There’s no need for complex tools or expertise—just the willingness to use it. And finally, it’s not just for emergencies. It plays an important role in maintenance, letting cyclists remove the chain for cleaning and ensuring everything continues to work as it should.

Think of it this way: the missing link isn’t flashy or complicated, but it’s vital for keeping the bike on the move. It’s that small, often overlooked piece that makes all the difference between being stuck and continuing the journey.

Now let’s go back to that person we started with—the one who seems to have it all together.

Here’s the truth: their life isn’t perfect. Nobody’s life is. It’s easy to get stuck reflecting on your own struggles or assuming your circumstances will never change. Maybe you think your life is defined by the decisions you’ve made, the family you come from, or even mistakes from yesterday. It’s tempting to park in that mindset and never move forward.

If that sounds familiar, I want to point you toward something that’s helped me time and again—Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV):"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."

This verse reminds me that trusting God, even when life feels confusing or stagnant, is the missing link that connects us to His plan. Like the bike chain, we can’t move forward without Him. (We try, but it often doesn’t result well.) When we lean on our own understanding, it’s like trying to pedal a bike with a broken chain—futile and exhausting. But when we submit to Him, He provides the guidance and strength to keep moving forward, even when we don’t see the whole path.

Here’s something else to consider: just like a missing link on a bike, faith in God is both practical and transformative. It’s there for the big breakdowns in life—the emergencies where you don’t know how to move forward. But it’s also there for the maintenance, the daily choices to trust Him, clean out the clutter in your heart, and realign yourself with His purpose.

Maybe you’ve been the casual rider in life, relying on quick fixes or other sources of fulfillment to get you by. Those things might feel comforting in the moment, but deep down, you know they’re not the real answer. You’ve been holding onto a piece of yourself, afraid that surrendering fully to God might mean losing something.

Here’s the good news: it’s not too late. You don’t have to keep pedaling through life feeling stuck or disconnected. Jesus is ready to be your missing link—the one who bridges the gap between where you are and where you’re meant to be. He made that possible by dying on the cross, paying the ultimate price for your sins, and restoring the connection between you and God. He’s not just there for the emergencies; He’s present in the daily grind, the mundane moments, and the quiet maintenance of your heart. Faith isn’t about living a flawless life; it’s about trusting the One who holds you steady through every trial.

Take a moment to pause and reflect. Where in your life do you feel stuck or disconnected? What part of your heart is God asking you to surrender so He can lead you more deeply? It’s never too late to turn to Him. Whether you’re coasting through smooth stretches or climbing steep hills, He’s ready to meet you exactly where you are and provide the connection you’ve been searching for.

If you’re willing to take that step, you’ll find it’s worth it. Open your Bible and read something, even if it’s just for a few minutes. You can start with the verse mentioned above if you want. Speak to Him honestly—like a Father who loves you unconditionally and a Friend who knows your heart. Let Him into those broken, messy places, and trust Him to bring repair, peace, and direction. You might be surprised by how something so simple—your quiet, genuine decision to trust—is actually profound beyond what you’re able to comprehend and can ultimately transform everything.