Bugs Bunny is a cartoon character I grew up watching as a kid. However, Bugs first appeared in 1940 in the film A Wild Hare. Despite coming out on top in most episodes, Bugs was directionally challenged. Perhaps, this characteristic spawned the famous saying, “which way should I go Doc, which way should I go?”
Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit, Galatians 5:25.
The average individual has to ask a similar question annually. What do I what to do for the rest of my life? Where do I need to live to make this a reality? Beyond the daily choices people make, two opposing forces exist in the world: the sinful nature and spirit. One feeds on self indulgence while the other exists to fulfill a higher calling. Since both are invisible, its hard for the average citizen to know which one to follow.
The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus, Acts 13:4.
Perhaps, the person with the best credentials in this area was the apostle Paul. In Galatians 5:16-26, Paul paints a vivid picture to help distinguish fleshly desires from the spirit. These acts can serve as a monitor, revealing where you are heading based upon current actions. Like a disciplined athlete, Paul began to fine tune the presence of Spirit, learning to keep in step with God. However, 1 Timothy 1:15 reveals Paul’s failures when he chose the flesh over the Spirit, making progress through trials and errors.
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path, Psalm 119:105.
Modern society has something Paul never had a copy of, the complete Bible. According to the Psalmist, the Bible can serve as a spiritual flash light, pointing individuals in the right direction. While you may encounter moments when you struggle to discern a clear cut decision on what to do, God has given everyone a conscience to help along the way. My best advice to those uncertain about the next path to choose comes from Solomon. “Many are the plan’s in a man’s heart, but the Lord’s purpose prevails.” May the wisdom of the Bible serve as a key ingredient to help you get where you want to go.
by Jay Mankus