Heavenly Paths
READ: Proverbs 4:24-27
Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, lies between mountains—the Balkans to the north and Mt. Vitosha to the south. The hiking is lovely among Vitosha’s pine and beech trees. The paths there in winter or summer are sometimes described as heavenly.
In his Word, God directs us to follow his heavenly path. He says, “Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm” (Proverbs 4:26). In other words: “Get rid of sin. Follow my ways.”
How can we walk this path? How can we rid ourselves of complaining? How can we eliminate hurtful words—words like ugly, stupid, loser—that are aimed at crushing the self-esteem of others? How can we possibly follow God’s directions?
None of us could on our own. So God did it for us. Jesus’ resounding “It is finished” announced that the path to heaven was completely clear. We are forgiven. The path to heaven begins at Jesus’ cross.
Since Jesus has cleared away all our sins already, we may as well continue sinning, right? Not at all! If someone washed, waxed, cleaned and vacuumed your car for you, would you throw dirt, sand, rocks and garbage right back onto it and into it? No, you’d keep it clean to show appreciation for the person’s kindness.
Look again at Jesus. He cleared the way to heaven by suffering hell. Now our only desire is to follow his ways. When the love of Jesus burns in our hearts, there is no room for sin. Our will is in tune with God’s will. Serving him and keeping his commandments is all that matters.
Following God’s path, even though we want to, is hard. So Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to walk with us. He strengthens us through God’s Word to think and do what is thoughtful and good. We follow, not to earn our way into heaven but to hug our Savior, thanking him for completely clearing our heavenly path.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: What "pet sins" do you struggle to eliminate? How can you help others who struggle with sin, too?
THINGS TO PRAY ABOUT: Thank God for sending his Son Jesus to accomplish what we couldn't. Ask God for strength and endurance we "run with perseverance the race marked out fo us."