Refer to the Map

 

Fall is, without a doubt, the most beautiful season here in the Northeast. There are so many family-friendly activities that take place during this time. Our kids have their favorites that they insist we do every year. When they were much smaller, we took an annual trip to our favorite pumpkin farm. This farm was an all-day adventure with many fun activities, but their favorite was the giant corn maze. It had the largest maze we've ever seen!

At the entrance to the maze, maps are provided to help everyone navigate. But, who actually takes the time to refer to the map? Once you venture a short distance into the maze, finding your way out becomes quite a challenge. One time, we got really lost for a long time. We thought we were surely moving forward but ended up repeatedly going backward and returning to the exact same spot. Without referencing the map, it’s difficult to know if you’re making any progress—whether you’re moving forward, backward, or, like us, just going in circles without getting anywhere. You only assume you are making progress and know where you're going.

I’m convinced that many Christians operate in a similar way. The Christian life is meant to be a journey. It’s about setting our hearts to grow and mature into the people God has called us to be. It involves leaving a place of spiritual bondage and the dominance of sin, and making a pilgrimage to the life God has for us—one full of spiritual freedom and guided by the Holy Spirit.

The only way to truly make progress on this journey is by consistently referencing the map, which is God's Word. Believers who do not routinely refer to the Word may assume they are making progress, believing that they are growing and maturing. However, in reality, they could be regressing into a life more dominated by sin. Alternatively, they might simply be going in circles, much like we did in our corn maze.

By diligently referencing our spiritual map, the Word of God, we can monitor our growth and ensure we are making genuine spiritual progress on the journey. Our minds will remain focused and aware of every step of the journey we’re on as we move forward to where we need to be.

What joy for those whose strength comes from the LORD, who have set their minds on a pilgrimage...(Ps.84:5)

…desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,...(1 Pe. 2:2)

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. (Ps. 119:105)