Which Way Did I Go?

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV). Do you remember the movie “Every Which Way But Loose”? It was a comedy starring Clint Eastwood. I remember it now only for the premise that it was written around. The story is about a man and is pet orangutan, Clyde. It was amusing in that Clyde always seemed to be able to help Eastwood’s character out of trouble. Sometimes I wish that I had such a pet! Perhaps the most asked question in our lives is “which way do I go?” If we are indeed trying to live by faith, it is natural to wonder about our direction. Theology is full of those kind of how-to questions. If I know that I am supposed to live a life of faith; a life that pleases Him; then how do I live that kind of life? I think that is why the write of Hebrews next gives us this verse. It is a practical, meaty part of scripture, a guidebook for life. I really could just encourage you to read and memorize the verse, because it speaks for itself, but I’ll try to explain. You see, this life is tough, isn’t it? Sometimes, we don’t know which direction to turn. We don’t know what to do. We can’t always discern the hand of God in our lives. Which direction does He want us to go? What does He want us to do? I think what this passage says to us, is that the real answer to our daily dilemma in the Christian life is found only in Jesus. We learn how to get along in life, in a way that pleases God, by following the One who always pleases Him! Do you want to know where to go? Follow Jesus? Want to know how to live? Follow the example of Jesus? Do you remember the WWJD bracelets? I’m not promoting the WWJD bracelets necessarily, but the idea behind it is correct. If we want to be correct in God’s eyes, then “What Would Jesus Do?” He alone knows all the ways of God! He alone can direct us into the heart of God, because He sits at the right hand of God, and they share hearts. The quickest way to please God is to act like His Son. Which, going back to the verse, is why the write says to “fix our eyes on Jesus”. If you are looking at Jesus, and following in His ways, you won’t ever be far from the mark God is calling you to. In decisions about something as mundane as your daily activities or something as important as your future career or mate, ask yourself honestly, “What Would Jesus Do?” Keep you mind focused in that direction and you will not go far wrong.