OCTOBER 21, 2023

 “The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.” 

― William Shakespeare, As You Like It

JEREMIAH 5-6

16This is what the Lord says:

“Stand at the crossroads and look;

ask for the ancient paths,

ask where the good way is, and walk in it,

and you will find rest for your souls. (6:16)

1 TIMOTHY 1

Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

JOURNAL 

I love the humility of Paul and that he never forgets where he came from and even though he has lost his position in society and now his life is being threatened every day...he sees the ultimate goal ahead. How awesome and inspiring...this is truly the "ancient path". 

One of the fails of human nature is to seek the easier path. While I know some of it is rooted in our instinct for survival it often has a detrimental effect on our souls and our relationships with others. If I really think about most of my actions they can be categorized as either engaging or withdrawing. Far too often the things I am tempted most to withdraw from are hard and the things I am tempted to engage in are easier. I am reminded of the Seinfeld opposite episode where George pledges to do the opposite of everything he would normally do...it ends up becoming his "religion". 

While I realize it's not that simple, there still is some hard truth in considering the opposite of what I would normally do...or should I say am tempted to do. When I really think about it...it probably would cure some of the negative consequential choices I have made in the past. I thank you father for this word and for your spirit that guides me to seek the harder path...I know deep in my soul that it's your path and the path to eternity. 

 20I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

GALATIANS 2:20