People are either born with a great sense of direction, or not! I am one of those who grew up reading maps for fun. So, I came to the GPS cheering squad rather late in life. Just give me a good, updated paper map and I can get us there.
But different folks have different ideas of how to give directions. On a trip to Ireland, I experienced two distinct approaches to that task. On one occasion, I found myself sitting on the edge of a roundabout, trying to figure out which way to go.
A driver kindly stopped and tried to help. Ignoring my map and my questions, he just gave me a pictorial overview of the area. “Just head right on down that lane until it bends to the north (the cow gate is right there). Then drive a bit till you see the big haystack, make a left and go until the rock wall stops. Take the second right and continue until you see the farmhouse. The correct road into the village is behind the house.”
I made it and had quite a few laughs along the way!
On another occasion, I stopped a farmer and asked for directions and instead of a narrative, he said, “Well now, just follow me!” He was on a tractor, but that is exactly what I did and made it to my destination!
Saying “follow me” is a powerful way to help someone. And that concept became clear in our message on Sunday. The Israelites in Joshua 3 were crossing the Jordan river. They were entering new territory and weren’t exactly sure which way to go. So, Joshua told them to follow the priests as they carried the Ark of the Covenant and led the way into the Promised Land.
“Follow the priests” is great advice for us too. As we follow those believers who have more experience, they can help chart our course for personal victory. As the priests moved forward, they carried the ark of the covenant. In it were the tablets on which God wrote the Ten Commandments. As we listen to God’s Word, following will become easier for us too.
Also in the Ark were the Jars of Manna. What a great picture of the provision God provides as we follow His instructions. And finally, the Ark contained Aaron’s staff, the one that budded. It is a picture of how God’s faithfulness can also give us direction.
This week, although we don’t have access to the priests or the Ark of the Covenant, God is still so committed to directing our paths. We just need to follow our leader.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
But different folks have different ideas of how to give directions. On a trip to Ireland, I experienced two distinct approaches to that task. On one occasion, I found myself sitting on the edge of a roundabout, trying to figure out which way to go.
A driver kindly stopped and tried to help. Ignoring my map and my questions, he just gave me a pictorial overview of the area. “Just head right on down that lane until it bends to the north (the cow gate is right there). Then drive a bit till you see the big haystack, make a left and go until the rock wall stops. Take the second right and continue until you see the farmhouse. The correct road into the village is behind the house.”
I made it and had quite a few laughs along the way!
On another occasion, I stopped a farmer and asked for directions and instead of a narrative, he said, “Well now, just follow me!” He was on a tractor, but that is exactly what I did and made it to my destination!
Saying “follow me” is a powerful way to help someone. And that concept became clear in our message on Sunday. The Israelites in Joshua 3 were crossing the Jordan river. They were entering new territory and weren’t exactly sure which way to go. So, Joshua told them to follow the priests as they carried the Ark of the Covenant and led the way into the Promised Land.
“Follow the priests” is great advice for us too. As we follow those believers who have more experience, they can help chart our course for personal victory. As the priests moved forward, they carried the ark of the covenant. In it were the tablets on which God wrote the Ten Commandments. As we listen to God’s Word, following will become easier for us too.
Also in the Ark were the Jars of Manna. What a great picture of the provision God provides as we follow His instructions. And finally, the Ark contained Aaron’s staff, the one that budded. It is a picture of how God’s faithfulness can also give us direction.
This week, although we don’t have access to the priests or the Ark of the Covenant, God is still so committed to directing our paths. We just need to follow our leader.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Sherry Worel
Sherry Worel is a Bible teacher at heart and lives a life of ministry. She’s been involved at Coast Hills teaching Women’s LIFE, Bible studies, online courses, devotionals, participating in Upstream conversations, and much more. Having a love for education, Sherry has over 50 years of teaching experience with schools, churches, and mission agencies. As well as earning her Master’s at Talbot Seminary, she rounded out her education with 35 years as Head of School at Stoneybrooke Christian School. Sherry is happiest with a book or fishing pole in hand.