Reading: Psalm 17:1-5
Our paths determine the way of our life. David states that he follows God's commands which keep him from following the cruel, evil people. We examine our hearts to see whether or not we've stayed on God's path, and we need to do an honest evaluation of where our decisions and choices have led us. Can we honestly say that we've followed the path that God has laid ahead of us? What do we look a when it comes to assessing our paths? What words come out of your mouth? What treasures and passions do you place in your heart? Where do you allow your feet to take you? These things can tell you exactly what paths you're choosing, as David describes in this Psalm.
Reading: Matthew 19:1-15
The paths of our world don't seem in line with God's paths and intentions. We read Jesus' view on some of the trends of our culture. Your relationship status is something that should always belong to God. Whether you're married or single. Though singleness seems to be the end of the world for many of our young people, God will use it if you just keep focused on Him. Many single young people focus on nothing but finding the right one, not leaving room for ministry or the intentions of God. Allow God to use your singleness for His work. You have time and freedom when you're single, perfect opportunities to lead a small group of high schoolers, work in the youth group, play in the praise team... Let God be your purpose and contentment.
Divorce is another trend of our society. When things get hard, a spouse may give up on another. Jesus calls us to work for what He intended. It is a nasty, devastating concept all around. We need to work to protect our marriages, and help others protect theirs. Dealing with divorce is tough. We should comfort those who have been through this hardship. It hurts everyone, and healing takes time for all involved. We must be very careful not to cast blame, but to come alongside those who are broken, and protect the marriages in existence. Society says do what you feel is right and what is easy. God says do what is right, and what is not always easy.
Children are highly esteemed in the eyes of Jesus. We are called to let the little ones come to Him, and to cherish them as blessings in our lives. Society at times places careers, status and money over our children. Abortion is an example of the easy way out. When dealing with the task is too hard, many have this option too easily available. Many children are neglected because day's out of the picture and mom's got to work night and day to make ends meet. Not an ideal situation for those God calls us to make priority.
Reading: Job 4:1-7:21
As Christians and friends, we have a responsibility to build up others who are struggling and need help to stay on God's path. We see the awfulness that Job endures, and when his friends come to encourage him, there are some different styles of "encouraging" that take place here. Eliphaz's words don't help Job at all, as he asks him what sin he committed to end up in the shambles he is in. Job has always offered Godly, encouraging advice to his friends, as we need to in order to help others stay on the right path. May we work to offer our struggling friends biblical, Godly advice. Surround yourself with solid Christian friends who will carry through those rough times and point you to the way of His will.
One thing that determines our path is our choices. We can listen to our society and follow the ways it endorses- the feel good, easy way out path. Or we can follow and offer biblical advice that isn't always the easy way, but the right way. Choose your path wisely.
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