31 Day Challenge - Day 16

There are two paths one can follow in life: one leads to prosperity and life, the other to destruction and death! How do we know which path to take? Proverbs 16 gives us insight into what the different paths have  to offer.  Some of the things God's path offers are: peace with enemies (16:7); safety (16:17); and prosperity and joy (16:20). The path of destruction extends trouble and destructive words (16:27); strife and gossip (16:28); violence and harm (16:29); and evil plots and mischief (16:30). Two different paths with two different outcomes. But what if I want to follow a path that seems right to me? Is there anything wrong with that?

First, there's nothing wrong with making our own plans or setting our own path. The caution is that in doing so, we acknowledge (ask for guidance and listen to) God as we decide what to do (Prov. 16:1). Remember, even if we think we know the way to go and it seems like a good way, God knows our heart and the motivations behind all of our actions (16:2). He knows why we choose the paths that we choose. We can always ask Him which path is best for us, which path He wants us to follow.

But what if I can't hear God's voice? Then search his word. His word is his voice and one of the ways we can hear His voice is to read His word. Inquire what God's word says about the road you want to take and then give that way to the Lord, ask Him to direct your steps (16:9). If we commit our works to the Lord, they will succeed (16:3; 16:9).

Second, The Lord has made everything for his own purposes, even the wicked for a day of disaster (16:4). We are made for God's purposes. Wouldn't it be a good idea to ask Him what we should be doing and what our purpose is? Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the Lord will be joyful. Not can be, or might be; WILL BE. A promise from our Lord that everyone needs to cash in on!

So we see again, we have a choice. Which path will we choose? It's probably a good idea to decide which outcomes we want. Then we can determine which road leads to the outcomes we desire and that will make our decision easier!