A few years ago, I did my morning run at a state park in Tennessee. During the run, I ventured off the main path and took some trails into the woods. The trails were winding, muddy, and laced with tree roots. I had to focus on the path to keep from tripping or twisting my ankle. That’s what happens when we leave the main path—we travel on precarious and dangerous pathways. Scripture provides a better route.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

This passage provides three “signposts” to follow:

Trust in the Lord. Who better to follow than the One who built and blazed the path? I am not saying the journey will be without some challenges. But Christ always knows the best route to take.

Don’t trust in yourself. Our understanding is skewed by self-interest. If Jesus leads you on the path to the right, stay right, even if it “feels” like you should go left.

Acknowledge him in all things. Recognize God’s work every day in every area of your life. Be aware that God is with you at all times and in all places. Communicate with him—not just in your morning “quiet time”—but all day. Acknowledging God in all things is the heart of true worship. 

Many trails will be tempting, inviting, alluring, and even fun…for a while. But they are all regrettable dead ends. Follow the Leader. He will make your paths straight!

Father, deep in my nature is the desire to go my own way and do my own thing. Give me the desire to follow you alone. Give me the strength to resist dead-end trails. Give me a love for the straight path. Give me the determination to follow hard after you.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen.