Which Way Should I Go? by Bonnie Peacock

The “Code of the West” was a colorful, unwritten set of principles that the early pioneers followed. One particular jewel of wisdom strikes a chord of concern yet today, “Just because you’re following a well-marked trail don’t mean that whoever made it knew where they were going!” 

The thought that we might actually be walking down a road that leads nowhere is disconcerting. We prefer to feel that what we are doing and where we are going is correct. But what if it isn’t?     

Daily, we are surrounded by the opinions and views of others. On the job, in line at the grocery store, and over the backyard fence, we are subjected to the insights and opinions of our fellow man. The media constantly barrages us with their slant on the events that surround us. What is a person to believe? After all, most of what we read about a product is probably written or endorsed by the company who is trying to profit from its sale.   

When we are conned into believing things that are not so, we often pay a rather high price for the blunder. Painting our house an awful color is one thing, but when the misrepresentation is of eternal consequence, we cannot afford to make a mistake. We have to be certain that what we believe and who we are following are credible. Some things we can not afford to leave up to others, but we must do our own research.

The Bible tells us that following the masses is unwise, “wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14). 

The Scriptures give us clear direction for handling every situation that we are faced with. The principles found in the Bible work, regardless of where we live, popular opinion, or political trends.

His Word is a “lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). A lamp is not a spotlight that brightens the sky for miles, but it provides just enough light for us to see where to place our foot for the next step. Once we have taken that step, we can see a few feet further. Daily doses of the Word of God will provide us with the proper illumination we need to see our way. 

Prayerfully reading the Bible brings life into focus. When we begin to see things as He sees them, we develop “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). Gradually, we begin to align our lives to His will and walk at His pace.    

So much is at stake. Many lives are influenced and affected by our decisions and actions. Locating the right path is critical, not only for us, but also for those who follow. We must find the true path, and be sure that we are leaving a well-marked trail. 

Life is too precious to be wasted on roads that dead-end and trails with needless switchbacks. Walking close to the Lord ensures that we will not wander off the safe path He has provided. Daily, we must pray, “Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path” (Psalm 27:11).      

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