There are all kinds of roads or paths to take. Some are physical- like yellow bricks, highways, trails in the woods or just the road to grandma’s house. Others are more philosophical- the road less traveled- the road to freedom, the road to discovery, the road to your future…
The road we take determines where we will end up. The only way to end up at the right destination is to choose the right road. The metaphor of life as a journey is a familiar one. It is found in the Bible as well as in classical literature. The Odyssey of Homer describes Ulysses' ten-year journey from Troy to his home in Ithaca, and Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress is an account of Christian's journey from the City of Destruction to the heavenly city. The Wizard of Oz is Dorothy’s journey to Emerald City.
The Bible frequently exhorts us to choose the right path, and sadly all around us the culture we live in thinks there are "many ways to God" and any path you sincerely follow will eventually take you there. No matter someone’s sincerity- one can be sincerely wrong.
Jesus made it clear that in this life we can take only one of two ways, and each of them leads to a different destination. Everybody has to choose either the crowded road that leads to destruction or the narrow road that leads to life; “You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. 14 But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” Matthew 7:13-14. There's no middle or alternative way.
You can find steps to discover meaning in life from a number of resources. You can read philosophy, or psychology or self-help books. Yet, the best place to seek wisdom and direction is still from the book written by the creator of the world and His Words which are: “God-breathed and are useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17. As followers of Christ, we are to desire to learn and grow in wisdom.
It is while we walk with God that we learn to enjoy the blessings of God. People have been trying to discover meaning for their lives since the beginning. Sadly, we haven’t always made the best choices nor chose to follow God’s design for us. Human and scientific studies agree with the truth and wisdom of the scriptures. When we are contemplating the direction of our lives- the path that God wants us to take we should begin with these 5 areas and include them in our plans. And it’s important to consider this for yourself, and if you are married- consider these 5 areas for the trajectory of your marriage as well. As believers- flying by the seat of our pants isn’t very honoring to our faith walk with Jesus. Jesus knew His direction, He knew His path and He never turned from it.. even though He knew the ending. For us- we might think that He had it easier- I’m not so sure- I do enjoy the adventure- most of the time- if I knew the ending- I would probably work less and get a bit lazy in my faith and plans for the future. In our lives as we follow Jesus- as we set our paths on the direction He places before us- we will find a life of joy, purpose and passion ! To find that path you need to begin with-
1. Self-Reflection Set aside time to examine your priorities, passions, and values. Journaling or meditating on questions like "What makes me feel alive?" or "What legacy do I want to leave?" can spark new realizations about your purpose. Jesus was on a journey- and He still took time every morning, “while it was still dark” he went up a mountain to pray. Mark 1:35. Jesus knew his path- yet He sought guidance too. I desire to live out my faith one day at a time on the path He has laid out for me. Knowing God has a plan- frees me to be in discovery for that plan. Secondly…
2. Cultivate Meaningful Relationships Genesis 2:18. Connection is a vital part of human life. Nurturing deep relationships with family, friends, or communities helps create a sense of belonging and can provide emotional and spiritual nourishment. God said in the very beginning, “it is not good for man to be alone.” And that isn’t only for married couples; Adam wasn’t a complete human until there was another person. Elijah needed a helper- God gave him Elisha, Naomi had Ruth, David had Jonathon, and Jesus had his three and his 12. Who is in your inner circle- what relationships are you cultivating? Don’t go your path alone.
3. Commit to Personal Growth. Purpose evolves as you grow. Seeking knowledge, challenging yourself, and pursuing hobbies or goals aligned with your values can bring deeper satisfaction over time. We aren’t meant to vegetate on the couch- we are to grow and learn. Peter wrote, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 2 Peter 1:5-7.
4. Serve Others Acts of kindness and service often instill a profound sense of meaning. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or contributing to causes you believe in, giving to others enriches both their lives and yours. You were created for this very thing- to serve others.
What is God calling you to do? You are created to serve others- is serving others a part of your future path? We know it is if you are following Jesus. That’s what you were created for! Maybe it’s mowing someone’s lawn or pulling their weeds. Maybe it’s just sitting with a shut in and listening and visiting. Maybe you are called to teach students or adults in your church. Maybe God is calling you to begin another ministry or become a pastor or missionary. You are created in Christ Jesus- to do good Include service to others in your ‘path’ for the future.
There is always a risk in stepping out in faith. There is always uncertainty in forging into the unknown. That’s where faith, God’s Word and prayer converge! We must believe that Jesus came for us- that He has a plan and we must step out in faith and walk in it.
God has given each of us a map- His Word- true it doesn’t say- go here or go there- but He gives us the truth and the minds to choose. Are you ready to step out in faith? Are you ready to obey whatever He shows you? Only you can choose your path.
