Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – September 24, 2016
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11
God set us on a path when we surrendered by faith to our Savior, Jesus. His path is not without bumps, but it is by far the best path. It is an inviting path because Christ accompanies us. Wherever Jesus walks, we want to walk. Where He goes, we want to follow. When He is out front, we have confidence in the direction. When we run ahead, we lose the advantage of Christ’s compass. When we lag behind, we lose perspective and our focus of faith in Him. God’s path is the most productive because this is where we walk with Jesus. Along the path with Christ, we hear His voice and His guidance in different directions. When we started out, we were determined to go in one direction. But over time, He has a way of revealing to us a better way.
Stay on the path with Jesus. Our direction determines our destination. We can be full of good intentions and still be on the wrong path. Good motives do not govern our outcomes, and sincere dedication does not dictate our destination. The road we are on determines our route. We can pray about visiting Washington, D.C., and even plan a trip there, but if we strike out due west from Atlanta, Georgia, we will not arrive at our desired destination. The path you choose carries you toward or away from your goals. A loving and respectful spouse is on a path of understanding and accountability. An excellent employee is on a path of doing what he or she does best with diligence. A fulfilling friendship is on a path of service and unselfishness. Those who enjoy financial freedom are on a path of generosity, saving, and wise spending. Paths have predetermined outcomes, so make sure to go down the God-honoring ones. We can lose a season of our life by strolling down a wrong path.
Do not be led astray down destructive paths. Addictions to work, drugs, alcohol, and pornography lead us down the path of death. Leading an out-of-balance life is traveling down the wrong path toward a wreck. Get off, go back, or start over; just don’t be naïve and keep going. Things can and will get worse unless you make a change of direction. Ask godly counselors to set your true north toward truth. God’s truth will set you free from flailing around on an unproductive path. So, walk in the truth (3 John 1:3) and walk with Jesus, as He is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). Our spiritual, emotional, financial, relational, and vocational directions need to converge into Christ’s personal path designed just for us.
It is imperative for God-fearers and Jesus-lovers to begin, continue, and conclude on the path of faith in Christ. It is there you enjoy His perpetual presence and full-on forgiveness. It is there you are enlightened and secure. It is there you are in a position to help others and be led by the Holy Spirit. It is there you make your way to heaven, as the path of salvation starts by placing your total trust in Jesus Christ. The path of sanctification (maturity) is continual surrender, trust, and obedience to Almighty God. It’s the path that leads to glorification in heaven, your ultimate destination. Enjoy the path Jesus offers—one of joy in His presence and eternal pleasures in heaven. This is the most productive path of life.
The Bible says, “And now I will show you the most excellent way” (1 Corinthians 12:31b).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, lead me along Your path of life for my life and work.Application
What path am I facing that requires additional faith and courage to pursue?Related Reading
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