The Paths of life

I remember walking in the Cuillin mountains on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. We began our climb in brilliant sunshine, but later in the day we found ourselves trapped in a dense mist so that it was impossible to see and keep to the marked path. We relied on a map and compass to get down the mountain safely. Part way down we met a group of fearful young people who had ventured out unequipped and were relieved to be able to follow us back to the safety of the valley below.

The Bible speaks of the paths of life. In today’s text it speaks of a straight path but, in reality, life can sometimes feel like an obstacle race rather than a straight easy path. For times like this we are given sound advice. Firstly, positively trust in the Lord with all your heart and commit your way to Him. When God shows you a path to follow in order to fulfil His purposes, you can expect it to be contested by the enemy.

Secondly, do not lean on (trust) your own human understanding or reasoning. This can lead you off the straight path. The word of God is the map and the Holy Spirit the compass to guide us along the straight path. Whatever obstacles you may be facing today, put your trust and confidence in God alone. The One who planned the straight path will remove the obstacles in His time and way, as you make it your daily choice to obey Him.

We are all faced with daily choices and are responsible for the consequences that follow. God has given us the gift of free will. We are all capable of making good and bad choices regarding the path we follow. We are exhorted to make (choose) level paths for our feet and to take only ways that are firm (Proverbs 4:26). This is an encouragement to get rid of everything in our life that will hinder us from making godly choices from a heart that is set apart to God and surrendered to Him.

The proverb is saying that if we want to walk the level path of God’s choosing, it will be necessary to deal with every moral hindrance, by choosing not to allow known sin to stay in our life. Those who walk in what God says is right, walk a level path that is full of light and they see clearly where to walk, confident of God’s guidance and protection (Proverbs 4:18).

So, let us keep our eyes on Jesus the light of the world, who said, ‘Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12).

Prayer: Father, thank You that You have given Your word and Your Holy Spirit to lead and guide me on the path of life. Please put within me today a desire to deal with known sin in my life which hinders my walk with You. Thank You for the power of the blood of Jesus, through which I am forgiven, restored and renewed in my relationship with You, my heavenly Father. Amen.