The other day I was walking on a trail around a lake. It had recently snowed so the trail was covered. I made it about three-quarters of the way around the lake when I suddenly lost the trail. I searched for the trail in many directions but couldn’t find it. I even asked a couple people for directions, but they weren’t much help. Finally I decided to head back to where I started. I never found my way to my intended goal.
After thinking about what happened, I realized that life can be like my ill-fated hike. We establish goals for our lives and make plans to achieve these goals. Then we set out to achieve our objectives of happiness, fulfillment, purpose, and love. We work hard and furiously to accomplish our goals. We may even seek advice from others. But that counsel doesn’t seem to help. But somewhere along our way we lose sight of the path. We begin to wander and not make progress. Finally we just settle for something less and never achieve our objectives.
We’re lost because we failed to consult the Guide. Almighty God is the one true Guide for life, as He is the Designer of all things pertaining to life. His counsel is wise and effective, because He knows the beginning and end of our life’s journey. He is never surprised, because He knows all the details of our existence.
Psalm 73:23-26 says, “Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
God promises to stay right by our side, holding our hand as we navigate life’s journey. He will counsel us on the paths we should take, but will also strengthen us along the way. At the end of our journey, He will welcome us to our heavenly home. Of course, these promises come with a provision. In order to receive these blessings, we must desire God above all things. We must trust Him to lead us on the right path. If we can’t trust Him, then we cannot receive the promises.
Reluctant Retiree 