More than an Option
Author: Jayne E. Parker (Florida, US)
I was walking my dog in our neighbourhood on a beautiful spring evening. Along the way, I observed a grandfather who was on an outing with his two small granddaughters. When they neared the road, the grandfather told his younger granddaughter, who had run ahead, ‘Don’t cross the street until I can get there to watch for cars!’ The little girl proceeded to cross the street without looking right or left. No cars were coming, so she was safe; the grandfather smiled at me ruefully and said, ‘I guess every direction I give her is an option.’
It occurred to me that we often treat God’s word in the same way. Rather than listening to and living in his word, we charge ahead, confident that we can make it on our own. When we run into difficulties, we realise that we need scripture to help us cope with the dangers and pitfalls of life. Fortunately for us, God loves us, forgives our lapses and cares for us, even when we forget and treat his word as optional.
Prayer: Dear Lord, remind us to study your word and to walk in your ways throughout our lives. Amen
