As you can see from the picture the sidewalk curves a bit and it reminds me of life.   We can keep our eyes on reaching our goal – in this case-the patio in the back – even though we may have to take a side-step or two.  Those side steps are sometimes made from our decisions and sometimes from just what happens in life.  In either case, we must be prepared for the consequences and make adjustments.  Whether the “curve” is unexpected or because we planned a side trip, there are still decisions to be made to keep us on our walk of faith.   We need to stay on course with strong faith by renewing our mind each day with Bible reading, study and prayer, to finish the plans and purpose God has for us.  But how do we do this?  That is the question.  And the answer is in the Word of God.

In Proverbs 4:26-27 we are instructed to, “Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established.  Do not turn to the right or the left; remove our foot from evil”.   We are to think about where our feet are leading us; what direction will each step take us.  We need to think ahead to make sure that where we are walking is leading us to our goal.  If we are not careful these “side-steps and curves” will get our sight off of what we want to accomplish.  That doesn’t always mean that they are necessarily wrong, it just means we shouldn’t let them derail us from our goal.  If you are like me, you like variety.  This really makes life enjoyable and interesting.  However it can bring distractions as some interests and hobbies cry out to be our first priority in life.  See what I mean?  Nothing is wrong with them as long as we manage our time and energy correctly to accomplish our first priorities.  Our first priority in life is to bring glory to God.  To do that, we must be faithful to walk according to His Word.  The only way I know to stay faithful to God is to stay in fellowship with Him; to acknowledge Him in every area of my life and let Him direct my paths.  (Proverbs 3:6)   We must keep our priorities and our values in agreement with God’s Word.  I pray that this short message is an encouragement to you and helps to keep you on the right path of God’s Word.

Proverbs 4:4 – Let you heart retain my words; keep my commands, and live.

Proverbs 4:23 – Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.

Proverbs 4:27 – Remove your foot from evil.

Romans 12:2 – Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.