Charted

What is Charted?

Like a master surveyor, Jesus gives us clear directions to find a fulfilling, purpose-filled relationship with Himself - a map to the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Charted is a daily devotional written by the junior class at Fountainview Academy (Class of 2019). Based on the book Steps to Christ, this book explores the path to the Originator and Provider of Genuine Joy. We don't have to be confused about the way. The certainty is in the journey: divinely Charted.

No tears are shed that God does not notice. There is no smile that He
does not mark. – Steps to Christ, pg. 86
Holding in my emotion, I requested to use the bathroom.
Barely reaching the stall door, the tears began to fall. Father, why am
I here? Why did I leave my beautiful home for this? I miss my family
so much! The tears rapidly slid down my cheeks. I don’t know what to
do, God! I feel so alone. The weight of the world was pushing down on
me, and my shoulders were beginning to buckle under the pressure.
As my waterfall of tears slowly dried up, I realized it was time
to go. I exited the stall, only to see a shocking image in the mirror. A
red-faced, tear-stained girl looked shyly back at me. All motivation of
returning to class immediately deflated. I couldn’t let everyone see me
like this; they would know I was broken inside. Suddenly, the bathroom
door opened. I turned, hiding my face from the unexpected intruder.
“Hey! How are you doing?” A bubbly voice inquired.
I tried to plaster on a fake smile even though she couldn’t see
my face. “I’m doing well, how’s your day been?” My reply was listless.
“Awesome! Thanks for asking,” she responded in that same
cheerful voice.
Why was it so awesome? The question tugged at my brain,
but I did not have the courage to ask. Putting on somewhat of a smile,
I opened the door and slowly trudged down the hall. “Once I get to
class, my face should look normal,” I muttered reassuringly to myself.
Upon entering, I glanced at my classmates, each one intent
on finishing their schoolwork. Not one looked in my direction. Relief
engulfed me, accompanied by a pang of loneliness. I had been gone
for a while… Did no one care? I slumped into my seat.
Father, I need your help. You’re the only One who can fill the
emptiness residing in my heart. Just as my prayer ended, a sweet,
quiet peace filled me, and I heard His voice: I am with you always,
even unto the end of the world.
Thank you, Jesus, for being my forever faithful friend.