Well-Worn Path

“You, God, prescribed the right way to live; now you expect us to live it. Oh, that my steps might be steady, keeping to the course you set.” (Psalm 119:4-5 MSG)

Down the hill from our main house, we have a detached studio. There are many ways to get to it, but they all involve a certain amount of walking outdoors. The shortest way is to exit out the front door, walk through the grass, and enter through the side door of the studio. Since we have taken this path so many times over the years, the grass is worn down from repeated use. Even a guest who is unfamiliar with our property can easily recognize that this is the best way to get to the studio. 

Consistent habits create patterns of living. Even strangers can be influenced by our ways. Thus, whether we choose a path of sanctity or transgression has implications beyond ourselves. God has prescribed the right way to live. He walks before us on the well-worn path of goodness. He teaches us to live with integrity. He reveals truths and insights as we follow in His footsteps. We can choose to stay on course, following His directions, or we can stray from the path and do whatever seems best to us. When we diligently practice compassion, when we treat those around us with mercy, we affirm God’s goodness. Those around us witness our discipline. There is no better way to guide people to Christ than through the undeviating path of discipleship.