Wandering

Along Right Paths

Psalm 23:3 NLT

Wandering in a little European town often begins with excitement and a sense of adventure! Aimlessly, you can explore cute shops filled with interesting things or charming cafes that invite enjoying a cappuccino and a croissant.

It can be really fun, unless you take a few wrong turns and now you’re… lost! This happened to my friend and me. Suddenly, we found ourselves wandering along a European highway, cars whizzing by us, as we tried to get back to the heart of town. We had no direction, no guidance, and no GPS.

A sinking feeling sets in… How will I find my way now?

This can happen spiritually as well…

The shepherds of my people have lost their senses. They no longer seek wisdom from the Lord. Therefore, they fail completely, and their flocks are scattered (Jeremiah 10:21 NLT).

This passage is referring to the religious teaching of a shepherd, a spiritual teacher, who does not seek God but speaks and leads you to mix in worldliness. When a person speaks from their own wisdom, it may seem interesting, different, or harmless.  But before you know it, listening to that form of wisdom will leave you feeling lost and confused.

Sadly, I have had times when I have wandered away from the Lord’s wisdom too.

But the Lord is good, kind and gracious! He saw my wrong direction and my struggle to be wise on my own. He stopped me. He kindly reminded me, “Where are you seated, child?”

And I realized… I am seated at the table with the King! (Ephesians 2:6)

And today, He uses His Word to show me who He is…

The Lord is my shepherd… He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name (Psalm 23:1, 3 NLT).

And where true wisdom comes from…

For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth comes knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 2:6 NLT).

I can still enjoy the relaxed feeling of wandering… but now… it is with Jesus. And the difference is it isn’t aimless, because Jesus knows the right way!

Father, in the quiet of my heart, You speak to me whispering… “Child, remember who I am: I am your Good Shepherd who leads you the right direction. Ask me and listen to me!” Lord, help me not wander off on my own, help me listen to You. Help me stay on Your right path. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Stacy A. Davis