Highway or Side Road?

 

Jeremiah 18:15 My people have forgotten me; they make offerings to false gods; they made them stumble in their ways, in the ancient roads, and to walk into side roads, not the highway.

What an interesting picture Jeremiah has here of the difference between walking the pathway of one's self-centered life, leaving God out of every aspect of living, and traveling the highway of God's ways. Instead of walking on the highway, Jeremiah says, the people had taken side roads. 

What is the difference between a highway and a side road?

*CONDITION OF THE ROAD - The highway is well-paved, whereas a side road may or may not be paved. You do not know what condition the road will be in around the next curve. Side roads are not always kept up. Highways are priority in upkeep. Side roads may be kept by local authorities or even individuals rather than by higher authorities such as state or federal governments. The bottom line is you cannot count on the condition of the side roads – you go at your own risk.

My life road needs good management to keep it in top condition for traveling. I can only do that effectively with God's help.

*SIGNAGE is much better on a highway than on a side road. I remember many instances of driving on a side road for miles before seeing a sign that assured me I was still on the right road. On a highway you regularly see reminders of where you are. On a highway there are additional signs of what to watch for along the way, most of which are missing on a side road.

God's Word is my signage for life's journey. As I follow His signs, I do not get lost making wrong turns. I know I will reach my destination safely.

*TRAVEL AMENITIES such as gas stations, resting places and food sources are frequent and numerous on a highway. It is easy to get refreshed when traveling. You never know when you will find such amenities on a side road, if at all. 

The bottom line is that if I will travel on the highway of God’s presence and His Word, I will have good directions, and safe roads, and I will have the spiritual energy, rest, and shelter that I need. My travel may not always be easy, but I know I will reach my destination safely when following God’s highway, and I won’t get lost.