Walking in the Way of Wisdom: A Trail Guide from God’s Word

As you consider your current path, may these reflections from the King James Version of Proverbs serve as field markers to guide you toward God’s good and perfect will.

When You Stumble

I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths. When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble (Proverbs 4:11-12).

If we need a recipe for a good, stumble-free life, with our feet set on a straight path, we need only heed God’s admonition to walk in the way of wisdom, allowing our heavenly Father to lead us in right paths. This wisdom keeps us from departing from God’s path and going our own way. Though there are attractions on the wrong path, we must look away from them, for they are merely distractions.

Father, you teach me in the way of wisdom, and you lead me in right paths. Therefore, I pray that my steps be not impeded and that my running be stumble-free.

By staying on God’s path, you need not stumble, and your steps will not be restricted.

When You Stray

Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away (Proverbs 4:14-15).

As we walk on God’s path, we are safe from evil as we trust in God’s keeping power. But if we foolishly enter the path of the wicked, we shall fall—even face destruction. Therefore, we must avoid the evil one’s path; and if we find ourselves on the wrong path, we must at once turn away and return to the path of the righteous. God allows U-turns when we’re on the wrong road.

Father, I have seen evil and have experienced its destructive results. Therefore, I avoid even a first glance at evil. Instead, I turn from it and run away from it.

As you recognize evil, quickly turn away and stay on the path of the righteous.

Look Straight Ahead

Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established (Proverbs 4:25-26).

The path of the righteous is a straight path. To arrive safely at our destination, we walk firmly ahead, our eyes on the prize. The distractions to the right and left of us are a facade. Behind them is a life of false illusion, born of the evil one. Remove your foot from the enemy’s territory and be safe. Yes, the temptations can be strong, but you are stronger still. Trials and temptations are to be expected, but the Christian knows they are temporary and will eventually pass. We take to heart the words of Jesus: “No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62).

Father, be the guardian of my eyes. Help me not be distracted by issues to the right and left of me. The prize is ahead, not in the distractions off the path.

Keep your eyes looking ahead, not back.