Direction

Direction makes all the difference. Proverbs 16:17 says, “The highway of the upright turns aside from evil; whoever guards his way preserves his life.” In my mind’s eye, this proverb tells a story. I stand at a crossroads, a decision point. I can take the road left or right. I know the way of righteousness, but there is also a way of ease, a way of comfort, a way of the world. Which will I take? Wisdom calls me to take the highway of righteousness. I am called to turn away from anything that would lead to evil and to death. It may be a habit, a relationship, or a way of thinking. It doesn’t matter what it is, I am called to turn away. And so I make a decision to follow the high road. I start out walking. The journey is spent guarding my steps. I cannot allow future decisions or present pressures to derail my journey. I must be cautious and ever vigilant about what goes into my mind and into my heart. I examine each step. “Is this what looks like Jesus?” I avoid obvious traps. I am deliberate about my journey. Each step brings me experience and wisdom. I know that no step is taken alone. God walks this journey with me. Jesus guides my steps. The Holy Spirit enlightens my thoughts and brings focus. The journey of faith and the story of my life are one. My life is in the hands of a loving God who preserves and perseveres.