[This focus was originally sent 06/12/2012 (Edited some.)]
I love to hike and be up where I can get a great view of higher mountain peaks and look over forests, land, rivers, and other bodies of water below. Sometimes my hikes take we through well marked areas. When hiking trails within State or National Parks, there are often caution signs urging to remain on the marked trail. The reasons for such postings range from things such as preventing treading upon fragile vegetation, guarding against erosion, or remaining on a safe walking surface. Sometimes there are even barriers preventing hikers from departing from the path or getting too close to the edge of steep cliffs. To ignore the warnings will either cause damage to be done or place the life at risk. I have found it quite interesting how many times I have watched others look at the posted signs and then ignore them as if they applied to everyone but themselves.
It is one thing to ignore the warnings designed to prevent damage to wilderness areas or the risking of injury to life. However, when the soul is at stake, it is far worse. Even so, how many look at God’s Word and then walk away (i.e. James 1:23-25) as if it applies to everyone else but them?
One of the Psalmists wrote. . .
“(100) I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts. (101) I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word. (102) I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me.” (Psalm 119:100-102 ESV)
Recently on a hike I was using a GPS to track where we had been and where we were going. Though we were on a clear trail, without the GPS we would not have known if the path we were following would ultimately intersect with where we wanted to end up. God’s Word needs to be seen as the moral compass and guide for life’s journey. Without it, our life may soon begin following the wrong path and we will be lost. May we use God’s Word to track our progress and to be certain our life is remaining on course toward the eternal destination God desires us to reach.
Have a great day STAYING ON GOD’S MARKED PATH!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
