Finding the Straight Path

I want to walk straight and narrow, but my walk is like a maze. It starts straight, but then I turn a corner and hit a brick wall. I find myself retracing my footsteps, returning to the old pattern of living that I am comfortable with. It always leads me back to the same beginning. I try a different path, hoping it will lead me to a holy life filled with God's presence. However, as I turn the corner, I hit another wall with no escape. So, once again, I retrace my footsteps, searching for the spot where I took the wrong turn. I always end up back at the beginning of trying to walk the straight and narrow, which always ends in a maze of confusion. I ask, "When, God, will my life be straight and narrow without confusion?"

And You answer me, "When you let Me lead you down the path and when I make your choices. Only I, the Lord your God, know where you should be and why I have placed you on this path you call confusing. Your path is only confusing to you, not Me. I am in control. You will see in the end when we are finally together. Trust Me, and you will see Me. You do not always know how to follow or hear Me, but I will not let you stray if you do what is right in My sight. Only when you listen to people or look to people and not Me does this straight path you are walking become a maze."

Scripture References:

• Proverbs 3:5-6 (The Passion Translation): "Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart, rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Become intimate with him in whatever you do, and he will lead you wherever you go."

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• Psalm 119:105 (NIV): "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

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• Proverbs 16:9 (NIV): "In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."

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• Isaiah 30:21 (NIV): "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.'"

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• Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV): "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate, and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."