Inspiring Stories: Get Outdoors!

From our inspiring stories, one way to break out of your cocoon is to get outdoors.

I grew up in the foothills of the Rocky Mountain Flatirons in Boulder Colorado. My friends and I would often venture into the mountains, packing only junk food, sleeping bags, and my friends Springer Spaniel. I loved sleeping under the stars, next to a crystal clear, babbling stream.

Another favorite activity was riding on motorcycles. I loved leaning into the gentle mountain curves and stopping to listen to the whisper of the aspen trees. Then, hiking for hours and seldom encountering another person. In those mountains I was overwhelmed with a feeling of God’s presence, like He was watching over me.

This is why I often write about spiritual experiences in nature. Also, I am naturally drawn to ministries with that focus. Here are a few stories to inspire you!

Outdoor Ministry

• A Christian Ministry in the National Parks: Grand Teton National Park, “One Sunday, I had a man walk up and ask me what I was hosting at the amphitheater. I told him about the service, and he said he’d be right back. He came back a few minutes later with his fourteen-year-old daughter and asked if he could leave her with me for the hour. She shared how she was hungry for the word, for Jesus, and how her family was not Christian. We got to talk for a while, read scripture, and talk about questions she had. This challenged me because there were some questions I had to think hard about myself! She kept saying, “I don’t know much,” and I shared that I’m still learning too, but that’s the beauty of it. We worked through things together, both left with questions to dive deeper into, and prayed together. God had his hand on both of us that day.” Anna

Just for Kids

• Trail Life USA: “Celebrating its 11th anniversary, Trail Life USA has grown into the largest Christ-centered, boy-focused organization in the nation, boasting over 1,250 Troops and 60,000 members across all 50 states. Inman emphasizes that the program is not just about outdoor adventures; it’s about mentorship and building character in young boys. “Christian men who get involved in Trail Life are suddenly surrounded by men who mentor you, encourage you, and become positive influences and role models,” he explains. This creates a nurturing environment where boys thrive, especially those without fathers present in their lives.”
• American Heritage Girls: “…Because of this incredible organization, I have learned survival skills, and I adore camping and hiking…This program has helped me understand who I am both as a person and in Christ.” Kylee

Men’s Focus

• Voice of Wilderness: “Our men’s trip into the San Juan Mountains was the perfect combination of physical challenge, spiritual renewal, and relationship building… coming out of the mountains we were a band of brothers who could call each other  true life-long friends.” Ted (Trip: Men’s Backpacking).

Like my personal experiences, you don’t have to join an organized group to meet God in nature. No matter where you live there are beautiful outdoor spaces to explore. Some say State parks are under-appreciated, less crowded, hidden gems that are often overlooked as most people tend to go to National parks. Click this link to find a comprehensive list of parks for every state.

Have you had a unique experience with God in a beautiful place? Please share by leaving a comment below!

Now, move away from your screen! Get outside and thank God for giving us a beautiful planet and hug a tree!