In Good Company!

"Nobody tells me what to do!" Have we heard others say that? Have we ever declared it ourselves? Such an approach to life may put one in the company of the many, but that doesn't necessarily mean being in good company.

Pride keeps many from submitting even to the best things. Sometimes people have refused to do something simply because someone else told them they had to do it! They chose not to do it to prove they were "their own man" (or woman) and no one else was going to call the shots.

It is true the choices we ourselves make (or choose not to make) impact the direction and destiny of our life. Still, relying of our own guidance is not sufficient. We often need the reminders or counsel others can offer as we go through life's varying circumstances. However, most of all we need the Divine guidance of God!

Through the prophet Jeremiah we have the needed exhortation to keep in mind. . .
"(23) I know, O LORD, that THE WAY OF MAN IS NOT IN HIMSELF, that it is not in man who walks TO DIRECT HIS STEPS. (23) Correct me, O LORD, but in justice; not in your anger, lest you bring me to nothing." ( Jeremiah 10:23-24 ESV)

Too many lives can be described as sheep without a shepherd. Sheep left to themselves do not fair very well. It is in SUBMITTING to the Will of our Heavenly Father that places us in good company. For example, MOSES continually sought the guidance of God in leading the nation of Israel. When questions came up, he consulted God. He was very meek ( Numbers 12:3) not taking any authority in and of himself, but was noted as being faithful in all God's house. ( Numbers 12:7; Hebrews 3:2) OUR LORD demonstrated the same faithfulness in carrying out the Father's plan. JESUS always demonstrated the same faithfulness. ( Hebrews 3:2)

John recorded. . .
"(28) So Jesus said to them, 'When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me. (29) And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I ALWAYS DO THE THINGS THAT ARE PLEASING TO HIM.'" ( John 8:28-29 ESV)

It was following the plan of the Father in every detail that demonstrated His love for the Father. ( John 14:32) His fulfilling the plan is also what has made it possible for us to be drawn into the COMPANY OF HIS BRETHREN. ( Hebrews 2:11) When we share His attitude of seeking to "always do the things that are pleasing" to the Father, we are in THE COMPANY OF JESUS. It is the BEST COMPANY in which we can choose to be!

Have a great day CHOOSING TO ACCEPT THE GUIDANCE THAT LEADS US GOD'S WAY!
Carl

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