The Right Path

The Right Path

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Have you ever had something hard in your life turn into something wonderful? Was there a time you first questioned God’s plan and then later thanked Him for it?

Although the Anabaptist movement had its beginning among educated city-dwellers, it soon spread to the rural areas of Switzerland. To avoid persecution, many people also left the cities and fled to remote parts of the country to evade the authorities. Former merchants, tailors, and cobblers were suddenly farmers. At that time, it was mostly a subsistence type of farming.

In areas where persecution lessened, the Anabaptists became excellent farmers. In some instances, they led in the development of new techniques that improved productivity. Through their honest[y], integrity and good work ethics, they were recognized for their stewardship of the land and their animal husbandry. They were even invited to move to certain areas by friendly rulers who saw their farming abilities.

One of my favorite Bible stories is that of Philip and the Ethiopian: “An angel of the Lord said to [Philip], ‘Go south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza.’ So he started out, and he met the treasurer of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under the Kandake, the queen of Ethiopia” (Acts 8:26-27).

When Philip set out, he had no idea what was in store. Still, he trusted that God knew. Following God’s direction, Philip was able to meet a man and lead him to saving grace in Jesus Christ. Not only was the Ethiopian ushered into God’s Kingdom, but Philip also got to be part of the process.

Perhaps you are being led to a place different from what you expected. Like Philip sent to the Ethiopian—or the Amish sent to the countryside—God has a plan for where He is taking you. Trust Him in that. Know that the paths God takes us on are not arbitrary.

Dear heavenly Father, the road is harder than I thought, and I wish I had more answers about where we’re going. Still, Lord, I trust You. Help me trust You more.