The Path Not Taken

Read Proverbs 4

Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. Don’t even think about it; don’t go that way. Turn away and keep moving.

Proverbs 4:14-15

Much of life is spent traveling, and a path is an apt image for the way we live. We choose a path. We cross paths. We follow a path. We stray from the path. But the author of this proverb had something much more literal in mind when he spoke of “the path of evildoers.” Our feet can take us on paths that will lead us away from God.

If we have struggled with or even succumbed to a particular sin in the past, we are to steer clear of the places that will put us in a compromising position. A compulsive gambler would do well to pick Rapid City over Atlantic City for a vacation. One who has struggled with drinking should stay away from bars, especially when alone. As the proverb urges, pick a new destination, for life is a journey. In the Lord’s Prayer, we ask God to “lead us not into temptation.” Why would we then tell our feet otherwise?

A WORD FOR TODAY

Our companions and destination have a lot in common.

Lord, help me to stay on your path. Give me fellow pilgrims on the journey so that we can encourage each other not to stray.