07/04/2022
The Good Way
“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.”
Jeremiah 6:16
What is it about the image of a path and a crossroads that is so captivating? It’s the subject of art and literature, poetry and song. Is it the idea of hope? The idea that there’s an unknown future to be discovered, an opportunity to conquer, change or be renewed by choosing well?
Many people feel that our country is at a crossroads. On the news you’ll hear that most Americans feel the country is on the wrong path. But what is the right path? What if the choice is not between “right” or “left” as a country? What if the path our country is on is a reflection of the paths chosen by individuals. You may feel powerless to change the path of the country, but you can choose your own path. As the Prophet Jeremiah said, “Ask where the good way is and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” The Bible has a lot to say about paths and finding the Good Way.
First, the Good Way exists. In a world that has rejected the idea of truth, this is an unpopular point of view. But there are many possible paths through life; not all are good. They have different guidelines and different destinations. The Bible teaches that the Good Way, the path that leads to peace and blessing and abundant life, is a narrow way. (Mark 7:7)
The Good Way is also knowable. Our country is actually founded on this idea. It’s called “Natural Law.” There are values intrinsic to human nature that can be observed and deduced and applied independent of any human law. Knowledge of good and evil, right and wrong, is inherent in the human heart. The Bible teaches that wisdom teaches us the Way to life. “Does not wisdom call and understanding lift up her voice? On top of the heights, beside the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand.” (Proverbs 8:1-2) God’s Word lights the path of those who walk in it (Psalm 119:105); and God grants wisdom to those who ask and seek to understand. (James 1:5, Luke 11:10).
The Good Way leads to abundant life. This is not to say that it guarantees health, wealth and happiness. In fact, Jesus taught that the Good Way is also marked with suffering and great personal sacrifice. Yet, walking in the Good Way, you will have peace in your soul and joy even in difficult circumstances. The Good Way makes the inevitable suffering of life bearable. (Phil. 4:12-13)
Finally, Jesus is both the Word of God and the Way. Many people regard Jesus as a good teacher of exceptional moral virtue, but His personal claim about Himself was much greater. Jesus said of himself, “I am the Way and the Truth and the Life.” That was a very unpopular statement in His time, just as it is today. But it was unambiguous. Jesus presented a choice. Follow me, it may be difficult and unpopular, but your destination is abundant life. Or choose a different path to what you think is right, feels good, or is easier. Your choice, your path, your destination.
Jesus is the Good Way. Walk in Him and you will find rest for your soul.
