Day 1 - The Path

Psalms 16:11 
11 You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Whenever we are traveling somewhere beyond the roads we're familiar with, my wife loves to explore all the different route options that are available. She doesn't like just putting the address into the GPS and trusting whatever its logarithm comes up with. If the road passes through a certain city or is a busy interstate that will have a lot of traffic, she will choose another path that will be more to her liking. This usually works out well, as the default route is not really the best one for our preferred driving experience. I love her diligence in seeking out the best path for us and get to benefit from something I usually wouldn't consider. I am blessed to just be with her, but then because of her navigation acumen, I get to arrive sooner and with an enjoyable driving experience. 

The default pathway of life doesn't necessarily equal the best one and quite often leads to an unpleasant and frustrating ordeal. There is really only one way to know what that path is, and it doesn't come from information alone, not even that found in scripture. If there is to be confidence in the chosen path, this can only occur in the presence of the One who knows every turn and intersection. By drawing near to Him, within close hearing proximity, the best way will not only be shown but by allowing Him to direct every step, it will have been taken in the joy of His presence where the true pleasures of life abound. 

As we set off on the adventure of 2024, there is a wonderful opportunity to welcome the navigation of our Father, allowing His understanding of what lies ahead to take precedence over every other pathway option. Rather than just letting come what may, we can have confident assurance that not only will we reach the right destination, but it will be the best joyful and pleasant experience along the way.

Meditation

Fasting:

"It is to an alone time with my Father that my soul goes in the times when it is challenged, where it discovers its purpose and is prepared for a demonstration of His power.”
Matthew 14:13,23

Praise:

"My soul will declare and sing of my Father’s great goodness, righteousness, mercy and longsuffering that are displayed as a praise in all of His works.”
Psalm 145:7-10

Identity:

“I do not let any corrupt words come from my mouth, but only speak good things that encourage and minister grace to anyone that hears.”
Ephesians 4:29

Understanding:

"The Holy Spirit helps me to remember and understand the truth that is mine in Christ."
John 14:26

Wholeness:

"I will hold onto God’s faithful promise of a long, healthy and satisfied life.”
Hebrews 10:23, Psalm 91:16

Provision:

“As I seek the Lord and tremble in His presence, I have assurance that I will not lack for anything.”
Psalm 34:9-10