What life path have you chosen?

There are two paths we can take in life. One leads to a type of self-righteousness, the other leads to gratitude and awe.

Although I am going to use scientists as an example, let me state, right from the start, that I have scientists in my family and love them dearly.  This is merely a hypothetical example to make a point.

There seem to be two distinct paths that scientists take.  First path, a person begins to learn a great deal in their field of study, and the more they learn, the more they marvel at the detail, the complexity, the astounding beauty and majesty, and the amazing minute details that make the difference.  They are in awe of their discovery, and want to share it with the world.

Second path, a person begins to learn a great deal in their field of study, and the more they learn, the more they marvel at the detail, the complexity, the astounding beauty and majesty and the amazing minute details that make the difference. They are in awe of the creator and want to share Him with the world.

Ps 97:6 “The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory.”

Did you see the difference between the two paths?   The first group is “in awe of their discovery and want to share it with the world.”  The second group is “in awe of the creator and want to share Him with the world.”

Those on the first path find glory in their discovery and broadcast it to as many as will read and listen.  They gain recognition, and accept the acclamation.

Those on the second path find glory in the source of the complexity, the astounding beauty and majesty.  They want to share that source, the Creator, with all who will read and listen, thereby direction all the glory and acclamation where it rightfully belongs.

The two paths are there for you and me as well.

Where is your life path taking you? Are you giving God the glory, or do you think everything you have and have done has been by your own hard work?

When the kingdom built up by King Solomon split into two, the northern kingdom set out to do life their way, not God’s way. They built temples to other gods and worshiped them. Not one king turned back to God, and they were destroyed by the Assyrians in 722 BC. The southern kingdom vacillated between focus on God and being self-reliant. It was because several kings repented that they had turned away from God and his ways. They, once again, led their people in worship and service of the Lord. As they turned back, God held back judgment for their sinful ways. Eventually, however in 605 BC, there had been so much injustice done by the kings, including the murder of innocent people, that God gave them what they wanted….total freedom from Him. He lifted his hand of protection and provision, and history records the invasion of the Babylonians, and the eventual destruction of Jerusalem and the temple.

What path are you taking? Are you focused on God or on yourself? Are you focused on God or away from Him?

Always remember, God has given us free will. He never forces Himself on anyone, but if you or I choose to go on our own, He will also honor that. We love His blessings, His protection, and His grace.

What path are you taking?