The Way

He shall die for lack of instruction, and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray. Proverbs 5:23 NKVJ

Without the Word of God, we tend to do what we think is best. The problem is we only think of what’s best for us! We are very self-centered beings. We are misguided at best. Proverbs 3:5 says we should not lean on our own understanding. That’s probably because we can’t see past our self clearly enough to make wise decisions.

There is a path that seems right to man but ends in death. When our thoughts center on “me” instead of Jesus, we go astray. Jesus is our example. He laid down His life for us. We are to do the same for others. He shows us how to live a rewarding life. The surprising part is how the rewards come only as we give our self, our life and our will over to Him. Jesus tells us to “deny self, carry our cross and follow Me”.

Sometimes the greatness of our folly is exactly what we need to recognize our need for a Savior. While it is painful enduring the consequences of our folly, hopefully the pain is great enough to draw us to Christ.

Accepting Jesus’ sacrifice is the first step to life. He demonstrated how to love by taking our place on the cross. Our sin deserved death and Jesus fulfilled it. Jesus stepped in and paid our debt. Now, we are given a chance at life abundantly, simply by believing He did this for us. When we do, we are given a new life, and a new nature one that desires God. We are even given the power, by the Holy Spirit, to live godly lives until Christ returns.

How about you? Are you going astray always thinking of yourself? Are you clinging to Jesus?

Lord Jesus, thank you for saving us from our own understanding. Lead on the path of life and righteousness. Equip us with your wisdom so we don’t go astray. In your precious name we pray. Amen.

© Elizabeth Marks, author of ThinkOnIt Devotions and has a heart for encouraging others with God’s Word. For more devotions, bible studies and a recommended book store, visit http://www.ThinkOnItDevotions.com today.