Powder, Purpose, and Presence

Powder, Purpose, and Presence:
Spiritual Lessons from Snow Skiing

Snow skiing is one of the most exhilarating experiences one can have. The beauty
of fresh snow, quiet forests, and the thrill of weaving between pines creates a kind
of adventure that feels almost spiritual. But beyond the physical rush of snow
skiing, tree skiing offers another level of opportunity to reflect on deeper truths,
and lessons that mirror the walk of faith and the principles found in Scripture. As
we move through the trees, navigate obstacles, and take in the beauty of God’s
creation, we can learn something about perseverance, focus, gratitude, and the
presence of God in every moment. These three spiritual applications serve as
reminders that even ordinary activities like skiing can point us toward spiritual
truths.
1. Tree skiing isn’t easy, but the reward of fresh powder is worth it.
Skiing in the trees is anything but simple. It calls for skill, courage, and patience.
The terrain shifts unpredictably, visibility can disappear in an instant, and every
turn demands full attention. Yet for those willing to embrace the challenge, the
rewards are unparalleled. The untouched snow, the effortless glide through the
forest, and the deep sense of satisfaction that comes from emerging on the other
side. In the end, it’s the difficulty of the journey that makes the reward even
sweeter.
Spiritually, this mirrors the reality of the Christian life. Walking with God is not
always easy. Scripture promises comfort and peace, but it also acknowledges that
believers will face trials, hardships, and seasons where the way forward is unclear
and difficult. Yet just as the skier presses through the difficulty for the joy of the
powder, the follower of Christ presses ahead because the spiritual reward is
worth every struggle along the way. The apostle Paul reminds us, “For our light
and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs
them all.” (2 Corinthians 4:17)
This perspective changes how we face hardship. Instead of being overwhelmed by
challenges, we can view them as part of the refining process. Just like navigating
through dense trees strengthens a skier’s ability, navigating through life’s
challenges strengthens our faith, character, and dependence on God. The effort
may be significant, but the growth, wisdom, deeper faith, and ultimately the
promise of eternal life far outweighs the struggle. In the end, the reward is more
than worth the challenge.
2. Stay focused on your line and don’t be distracted by the trees.
When skiing through the trees, one of the most important rules is simple: don’t
look at the trees but look at the spaces between them. Skiers naturally move
toward where their eyes are focused. If you stare at a tree, your body
unconsciously guides your skis toward it. If you focus on your line, the path opens
up. Your direction follows your focus.
This principle holds spiritual truth. The Christian life is filled with distractions,
temptations, worries, and countless things that pull our attention away from
Christ. When we fix our eyes on these worldly “trees,” we drift off course. But
when we keep our eyes on Jesus, our path becomes clearer, and we move in the
direction He has prepared for us.
Hebrews 12:2 gives us this exact advice: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author

and perfecter of our faith.” What we look at influences what we move toward.
When we focus on Christ, His teaching, His love, His example, we find clarity
even in difficult times. The obstacles may still be present, but they no longer
dominate our vision. Instead, we see the path God has laid out for us, and with
His guidance, we can navigate even the most challenging terrain.
3. Enjoy the ride and the beauty around you.
Despite the difficulty and intensity of skiing and especially tree skiing, it also
offers unparalleled beauty. The snowy branches, the quietness of the forest, the
glow of sunlight through the trees all create an atmosphere of awe. It’s easy to get
so caught up in the technique and challenge that we forget to look around and
appreciate the scenery or God’s winter land creation.
In the same way, the Christian walk, though often challenging, is filled with
blessings. God surrounds us with beauty, blessings, and moments of joy. Even on
difficult days, there are glimpses of God’s goodness through nature, people, and
answered prayers. When we take time to enjoy these blessings, our hearts grow
thankful, and we become more aware of God’s presence in our journey.
The spiritual path was never meant to be endured with gritted teeth alone. God
invites us to find joy in Him, to celebrate His creation, and to appreciate the gifts
He places along our path. Enjoying the ride doesn’t mean ignoring the hardships,
it means recognizing that God’s goodness can be seen even in the midst of them.
Conclusion
Skiing teaches lessons about perseverance, focus, and gratitude. It shows us that
although the trail may be difficult, the reward is worth it. It reminds us that
where our eyes are focused shapes the direction of our lives and it encourages us
to slow down long enough to appreciate the beauty and blessings God places
around us. In many ways, skiing and skiing through the trees mirrors our walk
with Christ, a journey filled with challenges, and opportunities for growth. When
we keep our eyes on Him, trust Him through life’s challenges, and celebrate His
goodness along the way, we experience a deeper joy and a stronger faith that
sustains us through every season.
- Craig Hecht

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Man’s way leads to hopeless end;
God’s way leads to endless hope.

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