Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)
God’s ways are righteous ways and all His paths are just. His ways bring forth the temporal, spiritual and eternal blessings for every child of the King who walks in them. It is His desire for us to stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. None are denied His glorious privileges – all are summoned, included, welcomed and embraced. His ways lead to the love, the delight and the practice of righteousness. It is God that brings forth light and life and all else is darkness and death.
God’s ways refresh the soul like cool water on a hot day. Not only does He refresh us, but also revives and restores our dull dead ways, quickening and empowering us to do His good, pleasing and perfect will. The Apostle Paul stated he beat his body – making it his slave - that he might not be disqualified for the prize. When we run ahead, choosing our own silly paths with no thought of God or His plans for our lives, we are the ultimate losers. We don’t want to miss His best by choosing to go forth in our own poor choices. He has a plan for each life and we want to walk in that plan.
Also, it is good to be well satisfied with the station and place in life He has placed us – knowing He does all things well - doing His will for His glory and for our ultimate good. We can trust Him with our lives and the lives we hold dear.
“And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.” Acts 20:22-24 (NIV)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NIV)