Adversity. At times on your journey, life presents you with crushing disappointment. Whether it is your relationships, marriage, work, health, or something else, you hear yourself saying, “I can’t do this anymore,” or “something needs to change.” Naturally, our tendency is to go down the path of changing our circumstances or the people around us; but more often than not, this usually results in the dead end of anger, confusion, and more discouragement.
Going Astray. The prophet Isaiah many years ago described men and women like sheep who have gone astray, each turning to their own way. Have you ever really watched sheep? They have an innocently warm, yet naively foolish expression on their faces. Their stubborn tendency to follow the flock wherever it goes gives you the sense if they don’t put their faith in the love and strength of the shepherd, there will be trouble. I’m convinced he’s right. Our thick wooly coat of pride makes it difficult to see our sheep-like hearts that lead us astray... typically down craggy bluffs of hopelessness and frustration. The good news is these difficulties in your life, if wisely addressed, can birth real hope and passion to live life well... and really change. I admit it takes great humility and courage to honestly look at yourself, but I think you know deep down this is where your hope will come from. And beyond your disappointment is your true passion to live...to love.
The Path Less Traveled. I acknowledge this is the path less traveled, and you won’t find the flock grazing there. But you might find just what you need to shepherd you through this storm. At this crossroad in your life, stand... look..., ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it. The choice is yours.
Going Astray. The prophet Isaiah many years ago described men and women like sheep who have gone astray, each turning to their own way. Have you ever really watched sheep? They have an innocently warm, yet naively foolish expression on their faces. Their stubborn tendency to follow the flock wherever it goes gives you the sense if they don’t put their faith in the love and strength of the shepherd, there will be trouble. I’m convinced he’s right. Our thick wooly coat of pride makes it difficult to see our sheep-like hearts that lead us astray... typically down craggy bluffs of hopelessness and frustration. The good news is these difficulties in your life, if wisely addressed, can birth real hope and passion to live life well... and really change. I admit it takes great humility and courage to honestly look at yourself, but I think you know deep down this is where your hope will come from. And beyond your disappointment is your true passion to live...to love.
The Path Less Traveled. I acknowledge this is the path less traveled, and you won’t find the flock grazing there. But you might find just what you need to shepherd you through this storm. At this crossroad in your life, stand... look..., ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it. The choice is yours.