Just as the ways of God are far above the ways of man, so are His paths vastly superior. Proverbs 14:12 and 16:25 remind us the ways that seem right to mankind lead only to death. This was evidently an important enough concept that the author was inspired to include it not once but twice.
David prays for instruction in Psalm 25:4- 5, beseeching God to teach him His paths, to lead him and teach him His truth.
God, in His great love for us, has given us access to the throne room of grace, allowing us to come before Him with our petitions and prayers. Modeling after Solomon in 1 Kings 3:1-15, should not our prayers include requests for wisdom and understanding so that we follow the paths He has chosen and decreed, rather than the erroneous paths we choose with our limited comprehension?
Should we not as David in Psalm 25 pray to recognize the paths that lead to abundant life and blessing, seeking to know the ways of the God of our salvation?
And we know the answer to such prayers will be “Yes, My child. Of course. Here you are. Accept wisdom with My love and My blessing. It pleases Me that you asked.” How do we know this will be His answer?
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. (James 1:5 ESV)
Lord, I ask you to give us today your gift of wisdom so that we would walk the paths of righteousness to which you lead us. Help us to lean not our own ways and our own understanding but to follow Your ways, always pursuing You above all else. We love you, Lord. And we need you. Abide with us, guiding us and preserving us. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
Which path will you choose? The path of God, or self?
–RG