Moorings – Anchor for the SoulShembull

Walking the Ancient Paths Prophet Jeremiah issued a call to Judah to return to her former days of steadfast devotion. In the context of geopolitical one-upmanship, shifting loyalties, and vassal states in ancient Middle East, Judah had wandered off from her ancient paths. The ancient paths refer to the Old Testament laws given to Israel. It was the good way and, for years, the Jewish nation had obeyed and found needed rest in it. Walking those paths set them apart from all the other nations. Judah needed only to Look, Ask and Walk (forming the acronym LAW). Jeremiah had issued a warning to the Jews as they stood at the crossroads of their destiny. Obedience brings blessings and rest, while the path of disobedience brings judgment and discipline from the Lord. Judah’s stubbornness and refusal to heed the warnings of God led to a downward spiral and fading of spiritual vitality. Even the people’s worship became very ritualistic and their sacrifices unacceptable to God. Many of us started the year of life chapter with great expectations and aspirations. Exciting developments could include a new job, a new relationship, marriage, parenthood, a new home or new resolutions. As the months go by, however, we may get caught up in the pursuit of our aspirations. We become distracted and lose sight of God. As a consequence, we become restless. If we have veered off the path, it is time to pause, look, ask and walk that old, familiar path with our Master. It means taking the decisive step of returning to God and His Word, and walking in His ways yet again. David prayed, “Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." As we pause at the crossroads of life, Jesus invites us to find our rest in Him. His is the way of obedience that leads to our loving Father and rest for our souls. Mooring: • In which areas of your life do you need to pause, look, ask and walk in order to get back on track?