The Storm Doors of Life

"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." Proverbs 14:12

Some of you have a 'storm door' attached to your front or back entrance. I remember a time when I was about ten years old, visiting family and the kids were all rushed outside to enjoy the great outdoors. I wasn't convinced I belonged with the crowd outside or sitting calmly on the sofa along with the grown-ups listening to their conversations. So I ventured back and forth between the two.

I would sit for awhile (as long as I could take it) with the adults as they drowned on about really nothing that interested me and then I would mosey on outside to see what the little ones were up to, then I would find myself back inside sitting (more like squirming) to try and act older than I was to be afforded a place in their presence. All afternoon I was back and forth, trying to find my place but realizing very quickly each time how I just didn't belong in either group.

Well, one of the times I decided to take a jaunt outside to join the small fries I forgot about the storm door. My forehead met the clean, clear glass of that door hard and fast. I was knocked backwards off of my feet and landed right there in the middle of the floor. Sitting there for a minute, wondering what the world had happened to me, the adults came running to find me there in all of my confusion.

Isn't it just like life to throw us for a loop when we think we have it all figured out. When the way seems clear and all arrows point to go on a decision we have made or a choice we finally decided on. When we're least expecting it as we're journeying through our life, thinking we're making wise decisions and all of a sudden we're hit in the forehead with a glass door, or even a brick wall.

The right way. A journey, in which the traveler imagines that he is pursuing a straight path that will lead him to his desired goal of a happy life. Sin is often able to hide, (like clear glass) and disguise it's bitter end (knocking you off your feet). When we plan our way without giving regard to God's plan for us we are blinded by what could be the traps that sin will lead us to. The path of life is submissive obedience to the will of the Lord. Wisdom is what we should seek as we plan our way.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you." (Prov. 9:10-11)

Now let's move forward with wisdom of the Lord being our guide. I mean who doesn't want our days multiplied and our years added to? And for goodness sake...watch out for those storm doors, they'll get you every time.

I love you & He loves you more!

Lord, Help me as I plan out my days and move throughout my life that I would be careful to always ask for Your guidance and direction. Open my heart more so that I may know Your way is always better and help me to be obedient to You. Thank You for the barriers You have placed before me to keep me on the way. In Jesus' name. Amen.