Sacred Snippet: Queen Mary’s Garden by Patti Greene
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Twelve years ago, John and I traveled to London, and while he worked during the day, I had the wonderful opportunity to explore on my own. One day, I courageously took a bus (yes, all by myself) to Queen Mary’s Garden. After figuring out the bus route, I arrived and found myself enchanted by the charming shops lining the streets before locating the garden. As I wandered through the garden, admiring the vibrant flowers and beautiful greenery, I was drawn to a special bench.
I sat down and entered a deep prayer time, surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation. On that bench, I felt the Lord speak to me: “Patti, I will always give you the strength and courage you need whenever you need it.” That message has stayed with me, as vivid as the day I received it.
Since then, I’ve encountered similar benches in other places, like one in Canada, where I sat and was again reminded of God’s promise. Each time I see a bench like that, whether on TV or in a park, I am grateful for God’s unwavering love that gives me His strength and courage when I need it.
I hope you have found a special place where God has touched your heart. If you haven’t found one yet, I encourage you to pause, pray, and listen for His voice no matter where you are. He is always present and ready to speak with words meant just for you.
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Ezekiel
I’ve been reading the Book of Ezekiel this week, and because suffering has been such a topic in my Bible study class, I zoned in on one of Ezekiel’s trials.
In Ezekiel 24, the story of suffering reminds us that in our moments of pain, we should strive to pray for God’s deeper purposes to be revealed. Otherwise, we will drive ourselves crazy trying to figure it all out.
Ezekiel’s wife was suddenly taken from him by God, even though he cherished her deeply. Despite his loss, God instructed him not to mourn for her openly. This might seem puzzling, but it serves as an example of what God expected from Israel.
Death of Ezekiel’s Wife Is a Sign
And the word of the Lord came to me saying, “Son of man, behold, I am about to take from you the desire of your eyes with a blow; but you shall not mourn and you shall not weep, and your tears shall not come.Groan silently; make no mourning for the dead. Bind on your turban and put your shoes on your feet, and do not cover your mustache and do not eat the bread of men.” So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the evening my wife died. And in the morning I did as I was commanded (Ezekiel 24: 15-18).
The people were to face destruction and loss due to their sins, just as Ezekiel did, but they were not permitted to mourn openly. To clarify, Ezekiel’s suffering was not the result of any sin or wrongdoings. He was meant to show the people how to respond to their hardships.
God’s Deeper Purpose
Sometimes, God allows things to happen to us for a purpose, even if it’s difficult to accept. He often wants us to use those experiences for His purpose: to help others who are going through similar struggles.
I can relate to this on a smaller scale. For instance, during our home walk-through in 2021, the morning before we were scheduled to purchase a new home, I fell down fourteen wooden stairs headfirst! While in and out of consciousness, lying at the bottom of the stairs, I started declaring aloud over and over again, “God let this happen so I can help someone else who falls down the stairs.” The realtor must have thought I was a basket case. I haven’t helped anyone in the same situation yet, but I genuinely wanted to find God’s deeper purpose amid my scary time. It’s funny how the mind works!
Seek Him
God knows our situation and/or circumstance, and we should seek to understand His purposes. Life happens, and God desires us to trust Him in everything. And yes, I know it can be hard.
Praying, meditating on His Word, and fellowshipping with others are some of the activities that can help us find peace and move on.
Ezekiel’s experience reinforces my belief that in times of suffering, we should strive to pray for God’s deeper purposes to be revealed to us—no matter how long it takes!
I’m working on it! How about you?
Feel free to share this reflection with others. May it encourage hearts and remind us that we’re never alone on this path.
God Bless,
Prayer
My heavenly Father, I love you. I know You are always looking out for me. However, there are some things I can’t get over, but I want to. Help me, Lord, to daily have the confidence to trust You for everything. You are the only one who can help me to understand my former and present trials, thoughts, hopes, and dreams. From this day forth, let me consider Your DEEPER PURPOSES for my life and not my own. Thank you for reminding me that You will give me an understanding of Your purpose(s) in my life. I will keep praying.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Bible Verse
“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).
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TRAUMA
Many of us, especially as we grow older, carry the weight of significant trauma. I am no exception. These traumas often lead us through years of introspection and painful questioning: Why did that happen? What if I had acted differently? Why can’t I move past these memories?
It’s disheartening when these painful memories resurface unexpectedly, sometimes decades later. These recollections can intrude upon our thoughts startlingly, leaving us feeling helpless.
Some people and experiences we wish we could erase entirely, while others we yearn to reconnect with before our time is up.
It’s perplexing why these moments of pain reappear at the most inconvenient times, challenging our understanding. We might also wonder why such memories continue to haunt us.
While the reasons may remain elusive, one thing is sure: God understands the depth of our pain and the struggle these memories bring. But He is there to offer comfort and support against these relentless, intrusive thoughts.
The weight of these memories can lead to confusion, guilt, and a diminished spirit. We long to bury these painful experiences so that they never surface again, yearning for relief from the confusion and sorrow they bring.
Canva Photo
As I drove to a friend’s home today, I found solace in knowing that God is intimately aware of every hurt and thought I have now and have ever endured. He understands the impact of these past trials on us, even when they resurface unexpectedly.
But when the shadows of past traumas return, how should we respond?
In some cases, this is where spiritual warfare comes into play. When we’re overwhelmed by memories we’d rather forget or face heartaches and struggles we can’t share with others, we might be engaged in a spiritual battle. Discerning whether these challenges are from God, ourselves, or an evil force can be confusing.
In these moments, consider the following truths about spiritual warfare. Satan’s attacks are not new. As believers, we are engaged in a battle and must equip ourselves with spiritual armor. Understand that the righteous often face fiercer attacks because they are devoted to serving God and praying for others. We must sustain ourselves with prayer and daily immersion in God’s word. And obeying God’s guidance and will is crucial.
God’s work in our lives is ongoing until He calls us home. Progress can be difficult, but we must recognize our identity in Christ and trust that He will “help us” through every challenge. One of my favorite prayers in the Psalms, which I constantly pray, is, “Help me!”
Bible Verse
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeing whom he may devour; who resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
Prayer
With faith and perseverance, please help me, Lord, to face what comes my way. You are my comforter when hard memories come into my life. Guide me to place my entire life, current and past, in your hands. I love you.
I’m feeling a bit bummed today. A few months ago, I fell in the Dollar Tree parking lot and wore a knee-high boot for over three weeks. Then, after another three weeks out of the boot, my ankle felt off, so I visited my foot doctor today, and now I’m in an ankle support brace until September 6th. Not cool. . .
The challenge now is finding shoes that work with this brace because, as much as I adore my high heels, they are not exactly brace-friendly. I can almost hear my Bible study friends gently reminding me, “Patti, we did say high heels might not be the best choice at your age!” In response to my slight frustration, I indulged in some old-fashioned retail therapy. Sorry, Amazon. I bought ten pairs of colorful Care Bear socks to brighten my mood and a colorful blouse to make myself feel better! Sometimes, we need a splash of color to lift our spirits!
Ankle Support
We all encounter moments of spiritual low points too. And, when we are bummed out, it’s important to take action. Praise God, listen to uplifting worship music, read your Bible, pray, and connect with other believers. And, even if immediate relief isn’t evident, remember that God is always there, listening and loving you. So, keep on going.
Just as wearing this brace might be inconvenient for me, it’s necessary for healing. Similarly, even when it feels tough to engage with God, it’s the best thing for our spiritual well-being. He is here for us.
As for shoe advice, any tips on finding the perfect pair of shoes that accommodate an ankle brace would be greatly appreciated! I prefer ones with heels. However, if that’s not possible, I am up to limping around for more retail therapy shopping.
Bible Verses
“Watch the path of your feet And all your ways will be established.” Proverbs 4:26
“The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” Psalm 121:8
Have you ever pondered the Holy Spirit’s presence and calling in your life? Feeling lost or uncertain is easy, especially when life takes unexpected turns. But here’s what I’ve learned over the years.
Never Alone
God never abandons us. When we accept Christ, the Holy Spirit becomes our constant companion. Even in moments of doubt and desire, we’re not alone.
Testing Grounds
Sometimes, the Holy Spirit leads us to testing grounds. We stumble, but that’s okay. These trials refine us, shaping our purpose.
Silent Moments
Sometimes, we don’t feel God’s presence. Perhaps there is sin in our lives, or maybe God is testing us. But even in silence, He’s working behind the scenes.
Perseverance
Life can be tough. Criticism, misunderstandings, and unmet prayers weigh us down. Yet, we persevere. God’s timing is mysterious, but He’s always leading.
Surrender
By surrendering our desires and hopes, we invite the Holy Spirit’s touch. He trusts us with His plans, even when they diverge from our expectations.
Stay Vigilant
The enemy seeks to distract us during life’s storms, but God remains steadfast. We may not always feel Him, but He’s there.
So, my friends, let’s trust the journey—even when it’s hard. God’s purpose unfolds, and we’re part of something greater.
Feel free to share this reflection with others. May it encourage hearts and remind us that we’re never alone on this path.
God Bless,
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, Life can be rough sometimes. Allow me to trust You through all my ins and outs. Let me build into my Christian foundation the fact that You love me and will never leave me or forsake me.
Bible Verse
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Reverend Bill Lawson, founder of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, departed this earthly realm today, May 14, at age 95.
Although I never met him face-to-face, his impact on my life remains profound. Every Oct. 2, I pause to remember him, thank God and praise the Lord for his ministry.
I remember sending him a thank-you note on Oct. 2, 1996, to thank him personally for what he meant in my life. The date may not be significant to everyone, but I keep up with it every year.
Without Reverend Lawson, I may not have become a believer in Jesus Christ.
‘A speaker’
Rev. William Lawson and his wife Audrey (Screenshot, KTRK 13, Houston)
As a lone 16-year-old, non-Baptist student at Baylor University, I was drawn to a group meeting on the second floor of Baylor’s Student Union Building to listen to a band and “a speaker.” The speaker turned out to be a preacher.
I was at a crossroads. I remember standing in the middle of the literal road, with the Student Union Building on the left and a hippie-looking guy on the right enticing me to attend a “cool, fun and wild party.”
Fortunately, I turned to the left and entered the Student Union Building. I sat on the floor in the back of the room, listening to the music and this preacher. I don’t remember exactly what he said, but I can guess.
He most likely said: ‘You are a sinner, and you must place your faith in Jesus Christ, and Jesus will become your Lord and Savior.”
There was a “time of invitation,” which is when people walk forward to the front of the room to talk to a designated person about a decision or to pray. I had never heard that phrase before. So, I kept sitting on the floor in the back of the Student Union Building.
Sitting on the floor cross-legged, I made the most important decision of my entire life. I accepted Jesus Christ.
I can’t say I understood what I had done or what a profound moment had just occurred, but I knew something had changed, and I liked the new me.
Lawson shaped not only my life but also the lives of countless others. His “speech” at Baylor University on Oct. 2, 1971, was a turning point. Imagine if he hadn’t been invited. Countless students—like me—might have missed the opportunity to encounter Christ in that transformative moment.
A pastor
The ripple effect would have been immense had Lawson not taken his calling seriously. His powerful sermons and unwavering faith inspired hearts and transformed lives. Without his commitment, countless souls might have missed the opportunity to encounter Christ—including mine.
The decision to start Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church was pivotal. His first 13 members formed a community that grew, thrived and impacted generations. Without this church, countless spiritual journeys—like mine—might have taken different paths. This church now numbers 12,000 in membership.
Reverend Lawson collaborated with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which led to an invitation to join King’s efforts in Atlanta, Ga. Their joint efforts could have influenced civil rights, justice and equality beyond measure. But Lawson stayed committed to the 13 people at his church and decided to remain in Houston, where he first came as a 27-year-old man.
Reverend Lawson’s commitment to those 13 individuals mattered. Each soul he shepherded had a unique story. Without his dedication, those lives might have lacked spiritual guidance and community.
Houston owes much to Lawson. His presence shaped the city’s spiritual landscape. Without him, Houston might have missed a beacon of faith, compassion, and justice.
The Lord can use each of us, whether in formal ministry or everyday interactions, to impact lives. If you haven’t yet explored the message of Jesus Christ, consider seeking answers and discovering the profound love that awaits you. It’s a journey you won’t regret. I haven’t.
My tribute to a man I loved, but never met
Though I never met Reverend Lawson face-to-face, I loved him for leading me to Jesus. I offer Paul’s words to the Christians in Thessalonica in tribute to Reverend Lawson:
“For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain, but after we had already suffered and been mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the boldness in our God to speak to you the gospel of God amid much opposition.
“For our exhortation does not come from error or impurity or by way of deceit; but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts.
“For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness—nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or others, even though as apostles of Christ we might have asserted our authority.
“But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us (1 Thessalonians 2:1-9, NASB).
Patti Greene is a Baylor University and Dallas Baptist University graduate, a member of Second Baptist Church in Houston, and the author of seven books. She obtained some information for this opinion article from KTRK 13 in Houston and KPRC 2 in Houston. The views expressed in this article are those of the author.
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Works Cited
Ballard, Moriah. “Houston civil rights icon, founder of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church,Rev. William “Bill” Lawson, dies at 95.” Accessed May 14, 2004. KPRC 2, Houston.
“Rev. Bill Lawson, founder of Wh eeler Avenue Baptist Church and civil rights icon,” dies at 95. Accessed May 14, 2024. KTRK 13, Houston.
There are a few minor changes from The Baptist Standard article.
NKJV Ultra Thinline Bible. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2024.
Disclaimer
I received a teal-colored softcover copy of the 1st edition of the NKJV Ultra Thinline Version from Thomas Nelson because I agreed to give an honest review of this Bible.
Publication
This publication is an updated version of the Bible’s original King James Version (KJV). Its update includes using today’s language for better readability for the times we live in. This teal version was published on February 13, 2024.
Content
First, after the copyright page, we find the Contents page. What I saw, which I liked, was that on the Contents page was the name of each book of the Old and New Testaments coupled with the page number of each book. This much-needed information benefits those unfamiliar with the order of the books of the Bible.
Second, the next page includes a list of the Abbreviations to all sixty-six books of the Bible with clarification as to whether the book is in the Old or New Testament.
Third, thePreface comes next. This is quite an advantage in helping the reader understand more about the original King James Version and why this new version was deemed necessary.
Fourth, Jesus’s words stand out in red lettering, which is always a good feature in a Bible.
Finally, the back of the internal Bible has eight pages for Notes and eight colored Maps from the world of the patriarchs through Jerusalem at the time of Jesus.
This NKJV Ultrathin Value Bible is an excellent choice for those who have enjoyed the original KJV version or feel comfortable using a derivative of the original version.
Format
“Simple” is what I would call this Bible. There is nothing within the text that is fancy or extra special.
The print is tiny, using an 8-point font. Made of imitation leather, it is not especially useful for long-term use. Within the Bible text, there is a chapter title for each chapter of the book, with some including subtitles. Its cover size is approximately 5 ½ x 8 ¾ x ¾,” which makes it perfect to include in a mid-size purse or backpack.
Pros and Cons — Not Mentioned Previously
Pros
This ultrathin version of the Bible is simply an attractive Bible, which, in my opinion, makes it desirable to give as a gift. Many would appreciate a Bible like this for special occasions such as salvation, baptism, a wedding gift, or even to lay in a casket before burial. It would also be ideal for church presentations.
Its Presentation page makes it extra unique.
Its simple wheat cover design surrounds the words Holy Bible. There are other colored covers with different designs that would be appropriate for either males or females, but this teal edition was the one I received.
I would also think this Bible would be a great one to use if you are a public speaker or pastor—to hold when speaking for confidence or to hide one’s notes. Of course, one should choose the color that best suits your style and preference because teal might not be appropriate.
The satin ribbon marker is always a plus in any Bible.
Cons
This Bible is not suitable for everyone. It does not have concordances, cross-references, or study notes, and there is limited ability for taking margin notes. Therefore, if you’re looking for a study Bible or one with extraneous notes, tips, and help, this might not be your best option.
Before Purchasing
In conclusion, as with all books, the reader should evaluate the Bible thoroughly and decide if it meets their needs. The Bible is an excellent option for people who prefer a lightweight, simple design, can read small print, and want to use it for gift-giving.
Please feel free to share, forward, or distribute as you’d like.
The same article is printed below. If you are anything like my dad, he would not click on any links! So, I posted the article below.
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Aging does not have to mean reducing our service to the Lord.
As I recently filled out my health history at my new heart specialist’s office, I reminded myself I have gray hair and crepey skin, and my weight loss program is not cutting it anymore.
Richard Stefanacci defines aging in the Merck Manual as “a gradual, continuous process of natural change that begins in early adulthood.” He believes becoming old is answered by looking at our chronological, biological and psychological age.
But nothing is mentioned about our spiritual age, which I think is a significant matter.
Let’s consider why some believers discontinue working for the Lord as they age, and the importance of renewing a relationship with the Lord until one’s body or cognition completely disappears.
Reasons our service diminishes with age
Multiple factors influence why aging folks cease working heartily, grow weary or drop out of church altogether. Some are physical limitations, such as driving restrictions or change in living location. In other cases, medical reasons such as eyesight, hearing and mobility issues affect one’s ability to serve.
However, some offer frivolous “reasons” for spiritual inactivity. They may believe the pastor isn’t “feeding” them anymore or feel worthless or left out at church. Others lose focus and fall away from the one true path, instead enjoying a sinful lifestyle or becoming distracted by golfing, lake houses and stock investments.
These circumstances and interferences can make serving the Lord challenging. This is understandable.
Fortunately, many still can experience a godly presence where they are.
Hope and renewal
If you fit into the category of one who has lost the joy of your salvation but wants to experience God again, there is hope.
In Experiencing the Presence of God, the late pastor A.W. Tozer states, “When we lift our inward eyes to gaze upon God, we are sure to meet friendly eyes gazing back at us” (p. 58).
Praise God if you have served him faithfully your entire Christian life and continue to do so by serving, studying the Bible, meditating and seeking him.
But if you have been a “pew sitter” for most of your Christian life, or one who has strayed or drifted from the Lord, understand there is no age limit where you can’t seek God again.
Death is inevitable. One never knows when that final day will come upon us.
A few years ago, on the day a new season was to start in my life, I fell headfirst down 13 wooden stairs. A trip to the emergency room confirmed a concussion. I had read enough to know many such falls are fatal.
Deep in my spirit during my recovery period, the Lord revealed the experience was to show me he was not finished with me yet. I needed that word to keep going and not waste my life on triviality.
God is not through with you, either.
You may have messed up. However, the Lord wants you to kindle afresh your life, and it can be done. He will come along and pick you up right where you are. And he can and wants to do it today. It is not too late. Your age is irrelevant to God. He wants you to return to the fold.
How to renew your relationship with the Lord
Decide, today, you want your life to be pleasing in his sight. Surrender as completely as you can to the Lord. Decide to live righteously. Repent and confess specifically the sins you have committed.
Avoid things that seek to take God’s place in your heart. Pursue God in all areas of your life.
Ask God to give you a hunger for his word. Read your Bible, seek his will, and pray daily.
Allow the Lord to speak to you through his word and his Holy Spirit. Thank the Lord for a second, third or fourth chance for allowing his presence in your life.
Here I am, Lord
The prophet Isaiah said to the Lord: “Here am I. Send me” (Isaiah 6:8 NASB).
The Lord used Isaiah powerfully, pleading for repentance and a restored life for the people of Judah.
If God could use Isaiah during a time of profound sinning among the people, he also can use you.
As a restored believer, you may be surprised at the circumstances God may place in your life. Ask God to show them to you, and then act upon his direction.
In my life, I have seen how one act of obedience leads me to the next experience or training I need from him, and the process snowballs year after year. Gradually, you will notice the fruits of the Spirit emerging in your life (Galatians 5:22-23 NASB).
Paul wrote: “Brothers and sisters, I do not regard myself as having taken hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14-15 NASB).
As for me, I will continue using my age-renewing crepe-corrector body lotion, because the tube says it will visibly improve my skin, but that is for the external “me.” But I am more concerned with the internal, and I pray you will be, too.
Patti Greene is a graduate of Baylor University and Dallas Baptist University, a member of Second Baptist Church in Houston, and the author of seven books. The views are those of the author.
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Have you ever been challenged to ponder a spiritual question?
I have! The question was, “Why do believers know so little about the Bible?” My semi-short answer and thoughts follow.
I have been a Bible teacher in church, homes, and outside venues, and I have been astonished (sort of) encountering people, even long-time believers, who know so little about the Bible.
When this occurs, I silently ask myself questions like…
– Does the Word go in one ear and out the other?
– Do they not ever look at their Bible outside of Sundays?
– Do they have selective memories?
– Does Satan wipe out what they have heard or learned?
– Does a person have medical memory problems?
– Is some sin blocking them from being involved in the Bible?
– Why don’t they take the Bible seriously?
– Are they really believers?
It baffles me that “so many know so little about the Bible” because since I accepted Jesus Christ 50 years ago, I have taken the Bible seriously from the get-go. I say that with as much humility as I can muster because I do not want it to come out prideful. “Lord, please forgive me if it is.” That is not my intent. I am not perfect—far from it, believe me. But what happened that was different?
To be effective in ministry, we should have a good handle on God’s Word. We should desire to read the Bible and learn what God wants us to do and what His will is. If we are disciples of Christ, we should not neglect the Word, and I mean the entire Word, including the Old and the New Testaments.
I believe the church should be used to lead people to Christ and then see them being transformed into Christ-like individuals.
While the church should be an instrument in one’s transformation, people make choices. They choose not to open their Bible. They choose not to read or study their Bible. And they choose not to attend church, Bible studies, or discipleship classes.
People must make the Bible a priority in their lives.
For a solid Bible believer, one act of kindness is to pray fervently for those who do not take the Bible seriously. Find out if they have a personal relationship with the Lord, encourage them to grow, and then stand by their side as they start the exciting life of knowing God through His Word and His Spirit.
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:2 NASB).
God has a path of life for believers in Jesus. Are you on that path of following Jesus or heading down a different one?
8-28-2023 – By Patti Greene
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Do you feel you are on the right path of life, following your Lord as closely as you know how? Or are you slipping slowly down the wrong path?
God has a path for believers in Jesus Christ. The Bible calls it the path of life.
As a child, I used to grab 10 to 15 Little Golden Books at a time and read one after another. One that always attracted me is Scuffy the Tugboat by Gertrude Crampton.
Scuffy was an adventurous little tugboat who believed he was meant for bigger things. He leaves his home, the man with the polka-dot tie, and the little boy who cared for him and sets off to explore the world. After his daring and treacherous adventure down a brook and then a raging river, Scuffy realizes home is where he’d rather be.
Twice during his adventure, Scuffy said, “This is the life for me.” The first time, he was leaving the reasonable, sensible path of his prior life to seek adventure. The second time was when he realized he already had been right where he needed to be all along—at home, safe in the arms of the man and boy who loved him.
Our goal should be to reach the point where we say right where we are, “This is the life for me.”
God wants us to understand we can know our path. Hopefully, it is the one he has set apart for us, but we must choose it.
Choices
In Psalms 16, King David declares he wants refuge in the Lord. In his communion with the Lord, he writes:
“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 ESV).
What path does God want us to be on for him?
In his Tyndale Old Testament Commentary on Psalms 1–72, Derek Kidner defines a person on the right path of life asone whose affections are centered on God. This person finds satisfaction in God’s ways and does not pursue other gods. God’s protection and instruction bless him.
We have two choices we can make in life: (1) accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, and (2) follow God’s path for us leading to total joy in his presence.
We know we have eternal life, but sometimes we experience spiritual struggles. David trusted the Lord would show him the righteous path of life.
Righteousness and unrighteousness
As believers, we continually must choose between righteousness and unrighteousness. We want to walk in victory, but sometimes we find ourselves desiring things God has proclaimed unsuitable for us. We have that struggle between our flesh and the spirit, so we must ponder the path our feet are on.
We cannot experience God’s true purpose for life when we travel the destructive path. We may find ourselves in a continuous cycle of repeatedly sinning and confessing. To break that cycle, we must deny ourselves, take up Jesus’ cross and follow him.
“And he was saying to them all, ‘If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me’” (Luke 9:23 NASB95).
“In the way of righteousness is life, and in its pathway, there is no death …” (Proverbs 10:28 Amplified Bible).
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous, so that he will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 NASB).
Reroute and redirect
A navigation system is an instrument that determines the position of a vehicle and the route to a particular place. The car’s navigation system tells the driver to turn left or right at a specific junction. The navigation system uses GPS signals to determine the vehicle’s location and direction.
It is a valuable tool with many benefits, such as helping people reach their destination, guiding drivers through congested areas, tracking packages, locating vehicles and more.
It is similar to the way God directs us in our lives. He shows us which way to turn, signals us on which way to proceed, helps us reach the destination and call of our lives, and guides us continually through the rough times in our lives.
Our navigation system must take its orders from the Lord. He will reroute and redirect our thoughts or actions if we genuinely want to follow his path.
‘This is the life for me’
Scuffy’s path of life allowed him to travel in a way that was not good for him. In the process, he enjoyed some of life’s simple pleasures, but as he kept traveling along the river, he was jammed with logs and became scared of the river moving faster and faster. Then the flood waters came, and the little tugboat desired the warmth and safety of home.
God can do the same for us as we travel our path of life.
Just like the man with the polka-dot tie who scooped Scuffy out of the water after his journey away and brought him home, God will do the same for us when we choose to live for him, decide against following unrighteous living, and allow him to reroute us when we stumble.
Let’s live victoriously in his presence along the path he has prepared for us.
Patti Greene is a graduate of Baylor University and Dallas Baptist University, a member of Second Baptist Church in Houston, and the author of seven books. The views are those of the author.
