Walking a Straight Path

Hebrews 12:2 (New International Version)

fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Once a father took his three sons on a winter hike. They came to a field glistening white from a snow the night before. There was not a single track of any kind that had been made in the field. The father, wanting to challenge his youngsters and perhaps teach them a lesson suggested they have a contest: Which one could walk the straightest path across the field?

The first trudged across the field keeping his eyes down to watch each step, trying to put each foot directly in front of the other. When he reached the other side, he looked back, and to his surprise the tracks were curved like the letter "S" in their course.

The second lad started, taking a few steps and then looking back to see if his path appeared straight. About every ten to fifteen steps the process was repeated. When he finished he eagerly surveyed the entirety of his course, but discovered it wasn't really straight at all - it was in segments, veering to right, and then to the left.

The third, seeing the other two had failed, employed a different strategy! He looked directly at his father who stood on the opposite end of the field. He walked toward his father, never taking his eyes off of him. Having completed the trek, his path was the straightest of the three by far.

The wise father then taught the boys, saying, "Sons, there is just ONE path in life that is straight and true, and that is the way of Jesus Christ (John 14:6). As you go through life, keep your eyes on Him, 'looking unto Him,' (Hebrews 12:2) and your course will always be right! Remember, He is the Way. Trust Him, and DO what His Word teaches and you won't go wrong." *

Keep your eyes on Jesus.... believing in Him and trusting Him (Acts 16:31), repenting of your sins (2 Corinthians 7:9-10), confessing your faith in Him (Romans 10:9-10), being baptized (immersed) for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38), and following Him diligently (Hebrews 12:2). THEN, you will be sure to reach the proper destination.

Dear Lord we ask You today for the strength to keep our eyes on You. As we go through this life that You have given us we want to do the things that please You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.