FWD: Morning Manna (Nov. 29); BP: Ps. 37; RBTTY: II Pet. 1; Ez. 35-36

 
Samuel D. High
sdhigh@aristotle.net

 

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-----Original Message-----
From: Apostle Tom <pressingon@hotmail.com>
Sent: Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:53:54 -0600
To: <pressingon@hotmail.com>
Subject: Morning Manna (Nov. 29); BP: Ps. 37; RBTTY: II Pet. 1; Ez. 35-36
 
November 29                                                                                        "God’s Prescribed Pathway"  
"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord—and he delights in his way."
                                                                                                                                                Psalm 37:23
      When we follow in His footsteps, we need never wonder where we’ll end up.
     One of the greatest delights of a parent or grandparent is watching a young child mimic his/her parent. Even now a smile comes to our lips and a twinkle to our eye as we think about the little girl putting on mommy’s make-up, jewelry, high heels, etc., and prancing out of the bedroom so all eyes can see.
 
     Or, we chuckle as we think of that "little man," all decked out in Daddy’s clothes. . . his tie around his neck. . .hat on his head. . .size 12 shoes on his feet, etc., as he clips-clops into the living room to the delight of everyone there. But, today’s Manna reminds us there’s a "mimicking" that’s much more delightful to the Lord (and us)—and that’s walking in "God’s Prescribed Pathway."
 
     David knew that God has a plan for our lives. He knew the "Lord was his Shepherd and he’d never be left in a lurch" (Ps. 23:1). He also knew the "Lord was his Light, Salvation and the Strength of his life and he’d never have to be afraid" (Ps. 27:1). Thus, we shouldn’t be surprised at today’s Manna—for our Good Shepherd always "makes us to lie down in green pastures. . .leads us beside the still waters. . .restores our soul. . .and leads us in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake" (Ps. 23:2-3). Hallelujah!!
 
     The Hebrew word "kuwn" is used here for "ordered" and also means "to be erect, set up, established, fixed, prepared, directed, ordained, etc." Thus, it’s the picture of a loving Heavenly Father knowing everything about us, what we need and tenderly leading us through life.
Now, this doesn’t mean "the path that is set before us" (Heb. 12:1c) will be a primrose path of ease! No, sometimes this path will be through the "valley of the shadow of death" (Ps. 23:4). Sometimes it’ll be through the marshy bog of misery (II Cor. 1:8; 11:23-30). And, quite often it’ll be a solitary sojourn as others either forget or forsake us (Jn. 6:66; Mt. 26:56).
 
     But, in none of these things we should fear—for "the Lord God is with us and will comfort, protect, provide and preserve us" (Ps. 23:4-6). And, every step of the way He will be our trusted Guide and Friend (Mt. 28:20b; Heb. 13:5b). Glory!!
 
     Therefore, we should always "run patiently the race that is set before us, ever-mindful to fight the good fight, finish the course and keep the faith" (Heb. 12:1c; II Tim. 4:7). Although doing this may bring us to the point of despair, His loving Presence and firm Promises will be to us as a "sure and steadfast Anchor of the soul" (Heb. 6:19; II Cor. 4:7-9). And, knowing the same "joy that was set before Christ" (Heb. 12:2) is the same joy that awaits us, we press on (Phil. 3:13-14). . .knowing the Lord "delights in our way because we’re delighting in Him and His way." Amen and amen.
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