At the Crossroads
Scripture: Jeremiah 6:16 (NIV)
16 This is what
the Lord says:
“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.
But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.
Devotion:
Life often presents us with
crossroads—moments when we must make choices that shape our future and define
our character. It is in these moments that Jeremiah 6:16 calls out with clarity
and wisdom: “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.
But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’” These words offer both a promise and a
warning, urging us to pause, reflect, and make informed choices.
Jeremiah spoke these words to a
nation that had wandered far from God, forsaking His ways for paths of their
own making. The “ancient paths” refer to the tried-and-true principles
established by God—paths walked by those who lived faithfully and found life
and peace. In our modern world, with its endless options and constant noise,
this call to seek out and walk the ancient paths remains as relevant as ever.
It reminds us that the answers we seek are not always found in novelty but in
the foundation of God’s enduring truth.
At the crossroads, we are invited
to “stand and look,” to pause before we rush ahead. This act of spiritual
discernment invites us to examine our lives, our motives, and the direction we
are headed. Do we follow the crowd, or are we willing to seek out the “good
way”—the path that honors God and leads to true rest? Sometimes, the good way
is not the easiest or the most popular. It may require humility, repentance, or
the courage to turn back from a wrong direction. But God promises that when we
choose His way, we will find rest for our souls. This rest is not merely
physical or emotional; it is a deep sense of peace and belonging that comes
from walking in harmony with God’s will.
However, the verse also contains a
sober warning: “But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’” The tragedy of this
response is that it leads to weariness, confusion, and spiritual unrest. God
does not force us onto His path; He invites us, but the choice is ours. If we
resist, we forfeit the blessing He longs to give. Today, consider the
crossroads in your own life. What decisions lie before you? Are you willing to
seek the ancient paths, to ask God for wisdom, and to walk in obedience? Trust
that His way leads to rest, renewal, and life. Let Jeremiah 6:16 inspire you to
choose well, knowing that every step on God’s path brings you closer to the
peace your soul craves.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help us to seek
the right and true path. May we follow your example from the Garden before your
trial and death. May we be honest enough to deal with you as you were with your
Father. Grant us the courage to say, “not my will but yours be done.” Seeking
your ways and not our own. May we follow you up the hill of suffering and pain
if that is your will. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
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