2022 Countdown of the top ten most viewed posts. This post was first published March 22, 2022.
I grew up in a time when there were no smart phones and no GPS. Everyone relied on paper maps to find the best route to their destination. Sometimes the map did not make sense and you found yourself going in circles. When you discovered you were lost, one option was to ask someone for directions.
It was a humbling thing to admit to someone you were lost and that you needed direction. Sometimes the advice was spot on and you reached your destination, other times the advice turned out to be misleading and you became even more lost. Finding the right person to direct you was very important.
It’s a lot like life. Sometimes we feel lost and disoriented and in need of someone to guide us. Where we seek direction is critically important since there are many things that can lead us astray. Even the sources that everyone turns to and trusts, like the map app on your phone, can sometimes give you the wrong directions.
Psalm 24 reminds us: “All the paths of the LORD are lovingkindness and truth To those who keep His covenant and His testimonies (verse 10).” God is the source of truth and direction for your life: “Good and upright is the LORD; Therefore He instructs sinners in the way (8).” But we must be willing to humble ourselves before God, seek His direction and follow the path he gives us: “He leads the humble in justice, And He teaches the humble His way (9).”
© 2022, Chris G Thelen
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. – John 14:6 (NASB)
I remember my father’s asking directions form multiple people whose “directions” got us more lost than ever. Finally, he asked someone how to get to ____, and the person said apologetically, “I don’t know.” My Dad shook his hand and said, “That’s the most intelligent answer I’ve heard all day.”
Thanks for sharing that great story. That’s happened to me a few times. It was always a gamble to ask someone for directions. Have a blessed day.
I recall the AAA strip map booklets we would order before a long trip. They kept you on track toward your destination by omitting all other highways that might lead you astray. Just like the Bible does.
I have forgotten those AAA guides. They were wonderful. Thanks for the comment. Blessings.
Ps. 86:11-12
Teach me your way, Lord,
that I may rely on Your faithfulness;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear Your name.
I will praise You, Lord my God, with all my heart;
I will glorify Your name forever.
Great companion verse. Thanks for sharing. Blessings.
Yes, indeed, if we hope to follow Christ’s true path, “we must be willing to humble ourselves before God, seek His direction and follow the path he gives us.” Very good advice. Donna (whose blog is titled “At The Father’s Feet” had that same message today. You will enjoy reading her message today – it is on the same path as yours!
It’s always something how God repeats a message. Sometimes I need it repeated so I pay attention to what He is saying. Thanks for the comment and sharing Donna’s post. Blessings.
Here is the link to blog Jan mentions if you’re interested in reading it: https://thefathersfeet.wordpress.com/2022/03/22/walking-in-the-footsteps-of-god/
I remember those analogue days too, especially studying maps the night before a long journey. Some things never change…but now we study His Word for direction in life rather than any worldly map. Thank you for this precious encouragement today, God bless you.
I recall that too — studying the map before a long trip. I like that analogy for studying God’s word for direction. Thanks for the comment. Blessings.