It was raining, bringing the temperature down even more. We were on a multiday hike in Nepal, and leaving the warm mountain lodge to venture into the freezing weather was getting harder each morning. “Let’s go,” insisted our guide. “We can’t wait for the weather to get better. Don’t worry, I’ll be with you.”

Setting off in the rain and fog, I felt utterly miserable. It seemed pointless to keep going—what could we see? Many hours later, however, the skies cleared up, revealing breathtaking vistas of towering peaks in the distance—views that we would have missed had we stayed back.

In Genesis 12:1, God told Abram to head into Canaan: “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” At that moment, there seemed little to look forward to; all Abram could see was a long, arduous journey through a foreign and inhospitable land where hardship and enemies awaited. The only assurance he had was God’s presence and promise of becoming “a great nation” (v. 2). Yet “Abram went, as the Lord had told him” (v. 4). Only many years later would he see the promises fulfilled.

Sometimes God may call us to a challenging job, ministry, or task that seems unrewarding. But, as He helps us to trust Him and step out in faith, He’ll always be there. As we get going, He goes with us.