Joyful

Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord.

Psalm 119:1 NLT

I enjoy hiking a new scenic trail in the mountains. There is a fun sense of adventure with the challenge of something new and the beautiful views that await me, including the unknowns ahead. There are often choices in the trail of two different ways to go. Will I pick the right one? Will it be marked well so I choose wisely?

Have you noticed how much all the writers in the Bible write about two paths to follow? I believe they are marking the path well for us! The bottom line is often this: The path to God is the one you really want to follow! And the Bible explains that there are just two possible ways to live life: Live following God versus live following evil.  

So many passages say something like this…

Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil… (Psalm 119:1-3 NLT).

There is a big emphasis on the contrast of following the Lord versus following evil. In the Old Testament, evil can be defined in many ways such as following the ways of Egypt, idols, other little “g” gods.

In my past, I often thought, “Oh, no problem! I am following God compared to those other things!”

In the New Testament, Jesus narrows the contrast…

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24 NLT).

Jesus defines the evil way as selfishness.

Ouch! That got my attention… my selfish ways are connected to following evil.

Then, Jesus gently reminds me, Where are you seated? (Ephesians 2:6).

Jesus is right! With Him, the struggle against my selfish ways can be won!

Father, in the quiet of my heart You speak to me… whispering, “Child, you are seated in the heavenly realm with Jesus, ask Him for help and He will help you follow the right path that leads to My joy for you! Trust Him.” Lord, help me trust Jesus’ voice and lead me Your joyful way! In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Stacy A. Davis