Don't Stray Off the Path

"Wait for the Lord. Behave yourself manfully, and be of good courage. Do not be faithless, but stay in your place and do not turn back."  - Thomas a Kempis

Man did not stay in a state of purity for very long. Tempted and overpowered by Satan, he disobeyed God, bringing ruination to, both, himself and his descendants. We, his offspring, have sadly followed his example; and from a tender age up until now "all we like sheep have gone astray."

Let's look at some areas where we've strayed off the path. All men have gone astray in their thoughts. They've forgotten that God created them (Deuteronomy 32:18). They forget his being and perfections, his presence, providence, goodness, mercy, truth; their dependence on him.

They also forget about the great responsibility they have to love, honor, and obey him: they forget his justice, his warnings, and his firm determination to punish sin. Granted, from time to time something might occur that makes us think about what we're doing; but it isn't too long before we revert back to our sinful ways (Genesis 6:5).

Another problem is that man's devotion to God can turn away. Nothing may point this out better than the state his feelings for Him. They have no interest in divine things. Their souls are totally committed to the world; wherein lie their treasures and their hearts.

They may experience fear and anxiety when faced with death and eternity, but are lacking that love which is the essence of genuine religion (Romans 1:26; 1 John 2:15). Also, men have gone off course in their dialogue or communication with God.

If our thoughts and emotions are corrupt or defiled, then so is our talk. This includes profanity, swearing, curses, and blasphemies (Matthew 12:34; Romans 3:13, 14). Finally, we can follow this line of thought to the way men have strayed in their conduct or manner towards God.

They wander from the paths of piety, justice, mercy and truth. And if it weren't for human laws, it would be difficult to estimate the number of horrible crimes they would commit. In a few words, they are proud, headstrong, greedy, cruel, and full of deceit.

There isn't one sacred command of God which hasn't been broken, not one promise that hasn't been ignored, not one warning which they don't despise. Naturally, there are consequences for those who chose to continue in this way. I include below only a short list of the repercussions caused by our turning aside from God.

We stir up His anger (Psalm 7:11; John 3:36); we risk losing true knowledge of God (Isaiah 60:2); true happiness can be lost due to separation from God (Isaiah 48:22); subject ourselves to misery (Romans 8:10); those who wander from God will ultimately pay a high price (Psalm 9:17).

In closing, take a good look at your present condition. Are you satisfied with it? How can you hope for happiness, while every sin you commit immerses you deeper into misery? Think how hateful sin is to God, and how destructive it has been to men.

You should seriously seek salvation by Jesus Christ. Draw closer to God through him. Pray for mercy, and for grace to help in time of need. Don't wait another minute! By returning to God you will regain his approval.

Scripture: Romans 3:23; James 4:17; 1 John 5:17; 2 Corinthians 5:17; James 1:14

Prayer: Dear God, I pray that You will direct my actions and my steps; help keep me on the straight and narrow path that leads to You always, amen

May God bless you always!

Judy