Crossroads

This is a devotional I shared at our Writer's Retreat in the Poconos. Somehow, this theme always seems relevant at some point in our lives. Let's begin with the scripture from Jer.6:16  "Stand at the crossroads and look: Ask for the ancient paths; Ask where the good way is and walk in it and you will find rest for your souls."    This verse reminds me of one of my favorite poems written by Robert Frost..."The Road Not Taken"  He says "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, and that made all the difference."  What about you? Have you ever found yourself standing at a crossroads and pondering which path to take? Up to that point you may have felt fairly confident- finding your way- thinking all is well. But now a little nagging doubt creeps in. The question arises: Should I stay on my planned course or am I here at this crossroads for a reason?  That's a very powerful question that many of us have had to ask ourselves at turning points in our lives. Sometimes going off in a new direction is a great pick-me-upper if you're in a rut and routine. Other times we veer off course-waste our time and energy and get seriously lost. Other times we speed up to life's crossroads because of restlessness caused by dissatisfaction with our present circumstances...job, marriage, relationships, health issues etc. Whenever we are at this point it is best to wait upon the Lord... It's hard not to run ahead of God but these decisions need serious prayer, listening to the Holy Spirit and times of deep introspection.
 Sometimes we're at a fork in the road not of our own choosing. We may be laid off work; experience the death of a loved one; betrayal of a friend; divorce or sudden illness. In those cases, we're forced to wander down uncharted paths. The answer is to remain before God..."Be still and know that I am God." Ps.46:10  Be purposeful and reflective, not reactive and compulsive.
  So the question I'm asking you today is this: Where are you now at this point in your life?  Are you at a crossroads? If so... which direction, which road will you follow? Is it the road where God is leading you? What decisions and changes will need to be made in order to walk down that path? How will your decisions affect others in your life?   All of these are powerful, soul-searching questions that need to be asked. As you stand at this crossroad listen to the words of Isaiah 30:21-22   Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."   Recall all the times in the past when God led you on the right path... believe that He will make a way even when there seems to be no way.  He is a faithful and loving God. This may be a time of New Beginnings for you or it may be a time of waiting and being still. Whatever path you choose...remember that you are not alone because His presence is with you and will go before you. Maybe this path will make all the difference. God be praised.