Stay on the Path by Laura

Recently I visited Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, SC.  Even though I have lived in South Carolina for 32 years and have traveled to this area of our state often, this was my first time to see this “unique melding of art, nature and history.” (www.brookgreen.org)

Included on the property is a zoo where animals native to the Low Country have either been bred and raised in captivity or have sustained a major disability due to injury.  They are well cared for and protected since they could not survive in the wild.  Careful thought went into the design and layout of this area and I noticed signs all along the path that read, 

“CAUTION:  Please stay on the path.  This area contains sensitive natural habitats with some unstable land surfaces, alligators, venomous snakes & stinging insects.” 

Well, let me tell you, that caught my attention and I made sure I stayed on the path.  Taking a detour risking unstable land surfaces, alligators, venomous snakes and stinging insects was not an option for me!  It seemed I heard a whisper from the sweet Holy Spirit, “Stay on the path, Laura.  There is purpose on the path I have you traveling and most importantly, I am with you on the path.”  Immediately Psalm 119:105 came to mind.  “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” How do I stay on the path?  Only the supernatural Word of God can illuminate “the path” to follow.  It is radiant with truth, exposing the next step to take.  King David knows this path and prays, “Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!” (Psalm 143:10).  On this secure path I follow a trustworthy leader.  As my Good Shepherd, “He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3).  He goes before and behind me and hems me in according to Psalm 139… all for His glory and my good.  Why would I stray from the path?

Have you been tempted to veer from the path?  Are you taking a detour where you have encountered unstableness, predators and danger?  Our hearts are prone to wander.  We want our own way or path and think we know better than God.  He is full of grace and mercy and is greater than our hearts.  Hear the good Spirit saying, “Please stay on the path!”  Trust your leader, follow Jesus, focus on the author and perfecter of your faith!

Cry out like King David, “Let me know Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths” (Psalm 25:4). “Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name” (Psalm 86:11).  “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).  Stay on the path!

Take some time to sit with the LORD concerning this truth and write out a prayerful response to Him.