Winter, Broken Roads, and Grace

Some people like to go for walks, even in the winter. I'm one of them, but I like to bundle up before heading into the cold!

In December, I was walking and noticed ice between the cracks of the pavement. This is why our roads decay more and more. Water slips in the space and as temperatures change, it freezes, melts, and expands. One simple crack grows and spreads.

The lacy ice work in the road reminds me that there is much that wars for our souls, like the elements fight against the road. In seemingly innocent places we find a thought. Maybe it is an assumption. It might be a fear. The thoughts trickle down deep and as they expand and contract with the circumstances. Soon, we realize we're broken in places we thought we were impenetrable.

We can be wise, like those planted by streams of water in Psalm 1. It is temping walk in the counsel of people when their words sooth our ears, even if our souls know the words are far from the words of God. Wait! How do we know if someone's counsel is from God or not? One clear way is to delight in God's Word so much that we meditate on it day and night.

Psalm 1:1-2 says,

"Blessed is the man

    who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,

nor stands in the way of sinners,

    nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

but his delight is in the law of the Lord,

    and on his law he meditates day and night." (ESV)

We need to know God's voice. I'm so thankful He gives us His Word.

He teaches us to let bitterness go. God wants us to be tenderhearted. He invites us to forgive, as He does.

"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." (Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV)

On my own, I'm helpless. The past will keep flowing into my future and bring more damage. Yet, I know my Savior took my past, my sin, my failings. The icy places in me, He removed by grace. By faith, He doesn't let me stay broken. I was dead in my sin, but He lives, and by faith I am made alive with Christ!

As you drive imperfect roads this year, may they remind you of the spotless Lamb of God who makes all things new.

A Prayer

Dear Jesus,

You are so very good. I'm sorry for when I've walked my way instead of Yours. Thank You for choosing to love me and rescue me. You have made me new. I choose to live for You. In Your Name, Amen.

Questions to Ponder

Where was your life broken in the past?

How have you seen God work in your life?

Why have you chosen to follow Him?