Fenced In

I’ve been having trouble with my dog getting out of the fenced back yard at my house. He keeps digging under the fence and squeezing through these really tight spaces that I couldn’t have imagined that he would get through. Yet, time and again, he finds another little space to worm his way through and break free of the huge back yard that I have for him to romp and play in. I think God feels my frustration. He’s put these boundaries in place for me to protect me from the road hazards of life. He placed me in this great open spacious place to enjoy, yet, somehow I always think there’s something better beyond the fence. So, I squeeze through the perceived loopholes, the little gray areas and go trotting on down the path that leads to destruction.

Boundaries are actually a good thing. How many times have you heard someone say a child will push the boundaries hoping that a parent will care enough to push back and show them that love and concern for them. As a parent lovingly disciplines a child to keep them on the right path, so God places boundaries around for us for our own protection. He knows His path is better. His way is smooth, yet we would rather jump the fence and go ‘hiking’ over boulders, rocky places, dangerous traps. We may even go spelunking into the deep caverns and hidden places we were never meant for. Then when we fall into the pit we desperately cry out for help, and God is there, lifting us out, brushing off the dirt and grime, wiping away our tears and setting us once again within the confines of his boundaries and upon his smooth path.

I am learning that God’s path is actually the easier path. I didn’t say it was easy, just easier. He will still allow obstacles into my life, but with His guidance, I can navigate even the most treacherous path, and emerge victorious with a whole heart free from some of the scars that can make me callous and insensitive to His gentle guidance.

Psalm 128:1 All you who fear God, how blessed you are! How happily you walk on his smooth straight road! (The Message)

Proverbs 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. (KJV)

Psalm 40: 1-3 I waited patiently for the Lord He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.(NIV)