Why Travel Is More Spiritual Than You Think

When Christians think of encountering God, they likely picture themselves in church; or perhaps having a devotional time in their own home. Considering that faith is such an integral part of life, it makes sense to associate it with our daily routines. Yet stepping outside our typical environments and seeking God in a completely new context is very Scriptural. Travel yields many benefits for our spiritual lives. Just ask one of the thousands of Believers who join us annually on exceptional Christian travel experiences (some of whom are quoted below).

Travel lets us behold new beauty. 

Like many of the Psalms, chapter 19 celebrates the majesty of the created world. Not only is the earth God’s masterpiece, made for us to steward and enjoy, it also reveals His character. “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (Pslm 19:1). Visiting new regions exposes us to different aspects of God’s majesty. This report, from one of our Alaska cruise passengers, paints a clear picture of encountering nature.

“At the glacier, everyone went out on the deck and sang How Great Thou Art. As it was ending, the glacier cracked, and a huge section fell into the water. Then a ray of sunshine broke through the skies. God was showing off! What a moment! Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”

Travel challenges us to trust God by getting outside our comfort zones.

Whether it’s the jitters some experience on an airplane (even though flying is the safest form of travel), or facing the unknown by visiting a different country, culture and climate, travel gets us outside our box. You’ll have lots of opportunities to grow spiritually as you trust Him through unfamiliar circumstances outside your control.

Of course, there’s a fine line between personal growth due to new experiences and the anxiety of an uncomfortable travel situation. Don’t worry: We avoid those! Most of our passengers don’t consider themselves “world travelers,” which is why we strive to make things as stress-free as possible. That’s why our experienced team handles every detail of your travel, from transportation to tour guides.

“Everything was so well organized! I always knew what was happening and felt very relaxed and comfortable the entire trip.”

Travel unites you with the Body of Christ in unique and unforgettable settings.

Stories roll in all the time of lifelong friendships being formed on our Christian cruises and Bible study tours. Not only does traveling bond you with friends and family you already know, it also extends your circle by allowing you to meet and befriend new people. Donna, a recently widowed Inspiration passenger, almost cancelled her Alaska cruise, but felt God leading her to go even without her husband. She shares, “What healing it brought to me. The love God surrounded me with through the people and music was unbelievable. It was wonderful and beyond words!”

Travel acquaints you with the history of your Christian faith.

Visiting parts of the world that contain archeological evidence from the Bible is a wonderful way to affirm truth found in God’s Word. There have been virtually countless finds in recent years throughout the land of Israel that attest to Scriptural accounts of the ancient Israelites and early church. The landscape itself bears witness to familiar passages of Scripture we hold dear. Imagine having your morning devotions overlooking the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus conducted much of His earthly ministry. Bob, who recently toured Israel with his church group shares, “Looking at a map vs. actually visiting biblical sights just won’t compare. Seeing the locations firsthand where the Bible describes the events that have changed recorded history is life changing.”

Similarly, European tours of Germany, Switzerland, Czechoslovakia and Britain that probe the history of the Protestant Reformation take you back centuries to the cradle of Christianity. Standing in the same spot Martin Luther did when he nailed his 95 theses to the Wittenberg door is a faith-building moment for any Believer.

Travel can get you out of a spiritual rut and give you a fresh perspective.

Setting out into the wide blue yonder gives you a glimpse of how big the world is—and how small we are by comparison. Travel can engender a feeling of humility and dependence on God as well as fueling our desire to learn and try new things. When you return home, everything will seem a bit different. Not only will you feel grateful for the comfort of your own bed, you’ll see every aspect of your life in a new light.

And while you’re traveling, you’ll have the chance to meet fellow humans—who are, like you, created in the image of God—that you otherwise would never encounter. The fact that Jesus’ Great Commission to us begins with the words, “Go ye into all the world…” should be a clue that that Christian life isn’t all about staying in one place. This is why we encourage you to go and travel the world, sharing the love of the Lord and returning home different than when you set out.