His Glory - My Good

Oh, how intriguing new things can be - we seem to always be on-the-lookout for bigger, better, faster, more efficient things and methods to do what we need to do. The way of the Israelites has much to teach us. Like a good father, God gave them the way of truth and commanded obedience; yes, of course, to glorify His Name but it was also for their own good. Prophet after prophet reminded them of the truth from which they had drifted, the message always clear: "Thus says the LORD, 'Stand by the road, and look, and ask for the ancient paths - where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls.'" (Jeremiah 6:16 NASB). In foolishness they - like us - saw and followed a different path. Those other paths are often well-traveled, paved with the bigger, the better, the faster and seemingly more efficient. As a pastor for more than 50 years, my Dad was always cautiously approached new methods of ministry; It was not unusual that he concluded ... newer isn't always better. The prophet Isaiah told the people, "Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it.'" whenever you turn to the right or to the left." (Isaiah 30:21 NASB). God has the best way - it is the way in which He has designed and commanded His children to follow. CityAlight sings, "There is hope in every trial - For I can trust the Lord - He will turn my heart towards Him - And help me bear the thorn - So in faith, I follow Jesus - On the road not understood - For I know He is working - For His glory and my good." Do I really believe God knows best and leads me in the right way? If so, I'll trust Him completely for ... His glory and my good.