Driving through the mountains between Naples and Puglia, you pass through long tunnels. At the entrance there is still daylight behind you. Near the exit you can see the light ahead. In the middle there is only the hum of the engine and the lights going by, and it is easy to wonder whether the tunnel will ever end.

Many Christians live in the middle of the tunnel.

Two kinds of darkness

For some, the problem is that the journey never really started. They entered the tunnel because everyone around them did: family, church, culture. They know the language of faith, but they have never had a personal encounter with Jesus. They feel something is missing, but nobody has told them what it is.

For others, the journey started well. They remember the light at the entrance. But years of serving, disappointment, grief or simple routine have worn them down. They still believe. They are just tired.

Both need the same thing: someone to say, keep going, the light is real, and you don’t have to walk alone.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5

How to keep walking

First, be honest about where you are. You cannot take the next step until you know where your feet are standing.

Second, find others. The Christian life was never meant to be lived alone. A small group of people who are honest with each other can do what years of sitting in rows cannot.

Third, build simple rhythms. A short daily time in God’s Word and prayer, done faithfully, carries you further than occasional bursts of zeal.

And sometimes, step away. Jesus often withdrew to quiet places. A few days set apart can change the direction of a whole year.

The tunnel does end. I have seen it end for hundreds of people. It can end for you too.

Not sure where you are on the journey? Find your next step with eight honest questions.