THE PATHS OF GOD

John Macduff

“All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.” Psalm 25:10

All the paths? That’s a lot easier said than done, especially when our current blessings are suddenly shattered or our plans thwarted, or because someone (such as a beloved spouse) as we travel together through this dark sin infested world on our way to our real home, is unexpectedly removed from the scene. It’s hard to say that “ALL, ALL of this is mercy! All is well, because they are “the paths of the Lord” and of His choosing and we will trust that He will lead His people by the right way.” It may not be the way we would have selected. In fact, it may be the very last path we would have chosen. However, we must always remember that when He leads His sheep, “He goes before them.” We mustn’t forget the Shepherd determines where we will each pasture. He guides the footsteps of His flock. He will lead them by no rougher way than He knows is necessary. Does a human father give his child his or her own way? If he did it would be his child’s ruin. Will God allow us to go our own truant wills which are often bent on wandering away from Him? No! Absolutely not! He knows us better and He loves us better!

It is the loftiest triumph and prerogative of faith to have no path of our own choosing, and with childlike simplicity and reliance to say, “Teach me Your paths. Lead me however and wherever You please. Let it be through the darkest, loneliest, thorniest way, only let it bring me nearer to You!”

O that we would keep our eye not so much on the path as on the bright gate and the end of it. When we are at that luminous portal and looking back, we shall trace with adoring wonder, the way in which our God has led us and see the need for every one of our teardrops! As to the question, “Is it well?” to which while living on earth we gave an evasive answer, we will be ready with an unhesitating reply, “It is well!” What a brilliant light will then be flashed on those three often mysterious words, “God is love!” Then, at last we will be able to add the joyful comment, “We have know and believed the love which God has for us!”

Meanwhile, whenever we are treading a path of sorrow we can be encouraged that our Lord and Master trod the same path before us. Behold, as He toiled on His blood stained journey, how submission to the Divine will formed the secret of His support. “Yes, Father, because this was Your good pleasure,” “not My will, but may Your will be done!”

If our covenant God is leading us, then what more can we desire?” “His ways are truth and judgment.” He will guide us by His wise council while we live on earth, and afterward receive us into glory! O God, if this is the design of Your dealings and discipline, “I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me live in safety!” Psalm 4:8

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MEDITATIONS From MacDuff, by John MacDuff 1818-1895 pgs. 293-294.

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