During the days of the Westward movement a lone traveler arrived at the bank of the Mississippi River. Of course there was no bridge there as now. The weather had been cold, and the river was frozen over from bank to bank.

The traveler looked at the ice fearfully. Was it strong enough to bear his weight? He stepped upon it gingerly, then looked at the far shore. It was a long way across, and he wasn't sure how thick that ice was. He had to go forward. He couldn't stay there or he would freeze. But being a cautious soul, he decided to be careful. He didn't want to be plunged into the cold river under that ice. He lay down on the ice and slowly slithered across on his stomach on the theory that this would distribute his weight better and there would be less danger of the ice breaking.

Inch by inch he slid across that broad expanse of ice, stopping to look and listen frequently for signs of danger, his nerves quivering at every sound.

He was halfway across when he heard the sound of someone singing. He turned. The sound came from the driver of a double team of horses, pulling a wagonload of coal. The driver was singing happily as the horses plodded steadily across the ice.

We laugh at the ridiculous contrast between the two men. But if we analyze the situation, perhaps the first man had reason to be cautious. He did not know that river. He was not accustomed to the weather in that area. He was not sure of that ice, so he was going to be extra cautious. The second man evidently lived in that area. He knew that river. He knew the weather conditions, and he knew that the river ice was solid enough to hold him and his load, therefore he cheerfully went on across with no fears to hinder his progress or mar his peace of mind.

Do you find yourself facing problems in your life with a lump in your throat, a knot in your stomach, and a rattle in your knees? Try faith in God, friend. Tell Him about your problems. Put your load on His strong shoulders. Trust Him with your life. He knows the solution to your difficulties, for Christ has been over life's pathway before us and knows all the pitfalls. Let's put our hands in His for guidance every hour of every day, and He will lead us to our most cherished goals.