by Victoria Heinecke

Stay on the well lit path.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“The heart of man plans his way,
    but the Lord establishes his steps.”
Proverbs 16:9 English Standard Version

My husband went for a walk last week. He wanted to see a C-130 flyover and was heading out to get a good view. His focus was towards the sky, as he looked for the approaching planes. The sidewalk, partially camouflaged by the dancing shadow of the bare tree, was uneven. He caught his toe on the edge of the protruding walk and fell, causing a hairline break in the radial bone of his forearm.

He’s in some amount of discomfort, but he doesn’t require a cast or surgery. The injury wasn’t as serious as it could have been, and for that we are thankful.

We may encounter stumbling blocks in our walk with Christ. It is tempting to ask, “Where is God?” when setbacks occur. God’s Word tells us that he is always with us, regardless of the events which have happened or the choices we have made. We live in a sinful world, where obstacles are set by the evil one to separate us from God.

“But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 3:14b-15 English Standard Version

Just beyond the shadow, which hid this stumbling block on the sidewalk, the path is well lit and more clearly visible. Walking close with Christ Jesus, in word and prayer, will help us stay on the well-lit path.

I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen. – Martin Luther’s Morning Prayer

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado