Snakes Ahead

In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight  Proverbs 3:6. 

Signs are always important and usually for our good if and when we heed them.They are especially helpful when on trips away from home. Othel and I, on our adventures in the West, are quite mindful of the signs along the highway.

Some of the places we want to visit are remote and places we’ve never been. If we ignore the signs there’s a good chance we could stay lost for weeks!

Once we strolled through an outdoor sculpture garden where one sign said, “Stay on the path to avoid rattlesnakes.” That was one of the most clearly interpreted signs I’ve ever read, and there was no chance of my ignoring it. I know about rattlesnakes!

On another stop we read signs warning us to stay on the path to avoid the possibility of falling thousands of feet. I didn’t need but one sign with that warning. I kept to the path – carefully and without exception.

Whenever we travel, we try to get in some hiking. The paths are essential for a safe hike, and I’m always grateful for them. Without a path a hike could be a dangerous trek into situations full of danger. The news of lost hikers is familiar in hiking ranges. The problem is most often a result of straying from the path.

Yes, the spiritual observation is as plain as the long stretch of highways in New Mexico. Stay on God’s path for a blessed life and desired destination. His paths don’t always lead down flower-edged walks or danger-free treks. There are always “snakes” and dangerous precipices. Sometimes the way seems too difficult to keep to His path. Will we ever pass through the valley that seems so dark and foreboding?

That is not a valid question when the Bible tells us that His Word is a “light to our path,” and wherever His paths lead, He goes with us. Helped and held by His strength and guided by His light on our paths is a sure promise from the Father. Our part is to STAY on His path.

Gentle Shepherd, we, like sheep easily go astray and wander into danger. Often we are stubborn and seek our own way. Forgive us and lead us. May we be obedient in following You closely. Amen

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

• Camille Anding is a child of God since age 12.
• Wife of 53 years to Othel; mother to Tahya and Eli;l grandmother to seven grandchildren and two great-grands.
• Retired from photography business with Othel. Now carry cameras on their travel adventures.
• Freelance writer, regular contributor to Hometown magazines, and dedicated to living “my utmost for His highest.”