Look for the Ancient Paths - The Crosswalk Devotional - January 10
The Crosswalk Devotional
Audio By Carbonatix
By Megan J. Conner, Crosswalk.com
Look for the Ancient Paths
By Megan Conner
Bible Reading
“Thus says the LORD:
‘Stand by the roads, and look,
and ask for the ancient paths,
where the good way is; and walk in it,
and find rest for your souls.” – Jeremiah 6:16 (ESV)
Where should I live? Who should I marry? Should I change careers? Am I making the right choices for my kids? Should I put more effort into a particular friendship? Am I overly committed? Have I said yes to more than I should? Are we prioritizing enough family time or time with others? Should we plan a vacation? Can I justify the cost of these purchases? Is my life meaningful? Am I content?
These questions and more, plague our minds and inundate us with doubts. While some of these queries may appear inconsequential, every choice or action triggers some measure of reaction. Like a small stone tossed into a pond, ripple effects may gain momentum and expand farther than anticipated. In addition to these minor deliberations, there are also times when we encounter a true crossroads. Moments when we are faced with significant decisions that are guaranteed to redirect our lives and, possibly, those around us. Understanding there will always be consequences (either good or bad) connected to our choices, how then do we determine the best path forward when we face decisions, whether modest or vast?
Thankfully, our Good Father offers us guidance through the gentle whispers of the Holy Spirit and through biblical truths outlined for us in the Word of God. Through scripture, we are repeatedly reminded of his divine care for us and the plans he has for our time here on earth.
“Your eyes saw my unformed substance;
in your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.” Psalm 139:16 (ESV)
Before we were even born, God foresaw every day of our lives from the moment we took our first breath until the unknown day ahead of us when we will breathe our last. He is fully aware of all we will do and be. His plans for us are good (Jeremiah 29:11). While he is aware of the plans he has for us, we are not always certain which direction to head. However, we have been given a roadmap through scripture. When we are not sure where to turn or what path to take, we can look for the ancient paths.
From Genesis to Revelation, God’s people looked to HIM as the roadmap. The Israelites followed the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21). Jesus reminded his followers, “I am the way and the truth and the life,” (John 14:6, NIV). If we long to follow his will and his way, we need only to open our eyes and search for the evidence of God’s design before us. The Bible promises us that his word is a lamp to unto our feet and a light unto our path (Psalm 119:105). It is not our Heavenly Father’s desire to keep us in the dark. If we truly long to follow him and his ways, we can turn to scripture for guidance.
Additionally, if we quiet our minds and soften our hearts, we can also hear the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit guiding and directing us in the way we should go. “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left,” (Isaiah 30:21, ESV). If we allow our spirits to surrender to his plans over our own, we can sense the leading of the Lord. I have seen evidence of this in my own life. Perhaps, you have as well. Doors open that you would have never considered, opportunities or provision arise that seem impossible, and most significantly – there is PEACE. Your actions are not forced; your soul does not feel unsettled. When we walk along the paths he has designed for us, there is no angst. There is instead a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
The next time you find yourself faced with a decision whether big or small:
“Stand by the roads, and look,
and ask for the ancient paths,
where the good way is; and walk in it,
and find rest for your souls.” – Jeremiah 6:16 (ESV)
Intersecting Faith & Life:
Have you found yourself struggling with decision making? Perhaps, you find yourself at a crossroads. How can you turn to scripture to help shed light on the path you are to take? Have you ever been in a situation where you were able to sense the leading of the Lord through peace or provision from the Holy Spirit? How does that give you confidence that you can step out in faith again in the future? Think about these questions today and how you can apply them for the future.
Further Reading:
Exodus 13:17-22
Philippians 4:6-7
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/typhoonski
Megan J. Conner is an author, editor, speaker, avid consumer of literature, writing consultant, and overall lover of all things creative! She is passionate about the written word and compelling storytelling. Whether that is through imaginative and whimsical children’s literature or faith-based works that allow readers to be immersed in narratives of authentic faith shared through the lives of imperfect people, Megan hopes to remind audiences of the beauty and power of shared stories.
To read more from Megan, check out her Blog, Just One More Chapter. If you would like to connect further with Megan, you can discover more on her Website, on Facebook, or Instagram.
Check out fantastic resources on Faith, Family, and Fun at Crosswalk.com!
Listen to the Jesus Calling Podcast!
Welcome to this special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, inspired by the topical themes from Sarah Young’s seasonal prayer devotional Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season. Today, we are featuring guests who speak to themes that all of us might be experiencing in this season of winter. As the days grow shorter and the night longer, we are offered a rare gift: permission to stop. This season can be a challenging time for many, and if you are struggling with low spirits, please know you are not alone, and help is available. This episode is an opportunity to honor your weariness, to resist the urge to rush, and to discover the profound healing that happens when we simply let ourselves rest in the stillness. If you like what you hear, be sure to follow Jesus Calling on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
