Thankful for Life's Path

I am thankful for the path God led me down so many years ago. As I was thinking about how to put that into words, I remembered a conversation I had with Him in my first book, From the Master’s Hand to Mine. Today I would like to revisit that conversation to remind myself that God, in His sovereignty, controls our destiny and has good plans for those who love Him.

Dear God,

Me: I would like to talk to you about the path I took in life to bring me to this very place. As I study your Word, the word path is mentioned in many places. That leads me to believe that it is important. The Psalmist talked about a path numerous times, but one of my favorite verses comes from Proverbs which is the very reason I would like to find out more about it. It says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and do not lean on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths.” 

God: Yes, there are many references to a path in my word and it should not be taken lightly. It is very important that I lead and direct because choosing the right path is of the utmost importance. Many times, leaning into your own understanding can lead one in the wrong direction.

Me: In the book of Proverbs, Solomon wrote “For the commandment is like a lamp and the teaching; a light; and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life.” Max Lucado said, “Reading Proverbs turns on the lamps in the dark corners of life.” I never really thought about scripture that way, but it speaks volumes to me.

God: When you read the Psalms, they will tell you how to get along with me, Proverbs tells you how to get along with other people. Both are very important. From the day you were born, there was a path set before you. I, however, gave you the choice to follow me or to go your own way. Reading scripture helps guide you along the way.

Me: Okay, I would like to talk a little about my path if that’s okay with you. I am sure it was very curvy! I was very fortunate to find you at an early age and as I reflect over the years after the decision to follow you, I must confess that I don’t think I prayed enough or asked for direction the way I understand it now.

God: Kathy, you were young, and I knew that. I knew you were weak, but the day you asked me into your heart, I filled you with the Holy Spirit who helped to lead you and make you into the person you are today. You put your trust in me and if anyone believes in me and asks me into their heart, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Me: I am so thankful for my decision to follow you, Lord. When did you decide I would become a teacher? I was really into the arts and wanted to do something entirely different.

God: I introduced you to your husband and then his sister had much to do about that.

Me: Oh yes for sure. I admired her passion for teaching young children and that is when I changed course. The path changed, but I still don’t remember praying or talking it over with you. I feel like I let you down and you took care of me anyway.

God: I told you in one of our previous conversations that the heart of man plans his way, but I establish their steps. I knew that the elementary school you attended as a child needed a good first grade teacher. Only I could have arranged for you to teach first grade in the very room you sat in as a first grader. I indeed directed your path.

Me: That is so awesome God. I did think that was very odd. That is one of those things that was not a coincidence. You gave me thirty wonderful years there and the opportunity to touch hundreds of precious young lives. I have often joked that my school should become a retirement home so I can finish out my years there! I am so glad I met my sister-in-law. It would not have happened had you not allowed me to meet Jeff. Can you tell me more about how you led us both down that particular path?

God: Yes, Jeff prayed to find you. It was extremely important to him that he find and marry a Christian girl and so I led him down the path that brought him to you and then down the path to your heart. 

Me: This seemed to be a pattern with me God. I am so humbled right now. I am pretty sure I failed you there as well.

God: Kathy, I am far more interested in what comes from inside. Though your words may have been few during that time, I could hear what was on your heart and mind. Your desires were the same as his and that is what led you both down the same path. Remember, you were headed down a different path and it was I that turned you around.

Me: Thank you, God. I can’t imagine any other path but the one I am on at this very moment. You have blessed me beyond measure over these many years and I am so truly grateful. Thank you for explaining my journey and for showing me how important prayer is in every decision we make. 

God: Remember, as long as you continue to delight yourself in me, I will give you the desires of your heart.

Me: Thank you for that Lord. That means everything to me. You have given me so much to think about.

Forever yours,

Kathy

So, today and every day that I take another breath, I am one day closer to being with Jesus. It is my prayer that I remain faithful to the path He leads me on, and I that I am thankful for each step I take.

“You make known to me the path of life, in your presence there is fullness of joy, at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11