Gladys Johnston   

NOT AN OPTION

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

I was on my way to Anthony's in Coraopolis with my family. We parked in the municipal parking lot and had to cross 5th Avenue to get to the restaurant. In front of us was a lady with two small children, who had run ahead of her. She immediately called out to them "don't cross the street until I get there". 

However, they ignored her instruction and charged out onto the street. Fortunately, no cars were coming. She turned to me and said "I guess my children think my instructions are optional".

It occurred to me that we often treat God's word in the same way. Rather than listening to and living in God's word, we charge ahead, confident that we can make it on our own. When we run into difficulties, we realize we need to follow God's word and instructions to help us cope with the dangers and pitfalls of life.

Fortunately for us, God loves us, forgives our lapses and cares for us, even when we forget and treat God's word as optional.

Dear God, remind us to study your word, follow your instructions and walk in your ways throughout our lives. In Jesus name, Amen