In what ways can we discern and choose God's path over the "ancient path"? Anchor Verse Jeremiah 18 : 15 “Yet My people have forgotten Me. They burn incense to worthless idols; they stumble in their ways from the ancient paths to walk in by-paths and on roads not built up.” Understanding the Two Paths • God’s path—revealed, trustworthy, life-giving (Psalm 119 : 105; Proverbs 3 : 5-6). • The “ancient path” here—man-made tradition, idolatry, self-reliance handed down through generations (Mark 7 : 8). • One leads to “rest for your souls” (Jeremiah 6 : 16); the other ends in “destruction” (Matthew 7 : 13). Why Discernment Matters • Scripture is infallible; every word is true (Psalm 19 : 7–9). • Human customs, however old, can drift from truth (Colossians 2 : 8). • Clear discernment guards against subtle compromise (1 Corinthians 10 : 14). Practical Ways to Discern God’s Path • Saturate your mind with Scripture – Daily reading and memorizing keeps the compass fixed (Joshua 1 : 8). • Compare every “ancient” practice with the Word – If it contradicts God’s command, it must be rejected (Acts 17 : 11). • Listen for the Spirit’s inner confirmation – He guides into all truth (John 16 : 13). • Watch the fruit – God’s path produces love, joy, peace (Galatians 5 : 22-23); the other leaves emptiness (Romans 6 : 21). • Seek counsel from mature believers – Wise companions help expose blind spots (Proverbs 15 : 22). • Observe Providence – God opens doors that align with righteousness (Revelation 3 : 8). • Test motives – Is the desire to glorify Christ or preserve comfort? (1 Corinthians 10 : 31). Choosing God’s Path Daily 1. Renounce idols—anything rivaling God’s supremacy (1 John 5 : 21). 2. Act promptly—delayed obedience invites drift (James 4 : 17). 3. Embrace the narrow way—expect resistance yet press on (Matthew 7 : 14). 4. Keep short accounts—repent quickly when you stumble (1 John 1 : 9). 5. Celebrate victories—thank God for every step of faithful walking (Psalm 107 : 1). Encouraging Examples • Josiah tore down ancestral idols and “walked in all the ways of David” (2 Kings 23 : 2-3). • Daniel rejected Babylon’s diet, choosing God’s standard and thriving (Daniel 1 : 8-17). • The Bereans examined Scripture daily, discerning truth over tradition (Acts 17 : 11). Warning Snapshots • Israel clung to bronze serpent tradition until Hezekiah destroyed it (2 Kings 18 : 4). • The Pharisees cherished oral customs, nullifying God’s Word (Mark 7 : 13). • Demas loved the present world and abandoned the mission (2 Timothy 4 : 10). Assurance for the Journey “The LORD will guide you continually” (Isaiah 58 : 11). Stand firm on His unchanging Word, and every step will be lit, stable, and eternally fruitful. |
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