The Forks in the Road

When Enoch had lived 65 years, he fathered Methuselah. Enoch walked with God after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him. (Genesis 5:21-24 ESV).

I know that the genealogies of the Bible are often overlooked; however, in our reading today there is a wonderful phrase used of Enoch. Moses says, “Enoch walked with God.” I have tried to imagine what it would be like to “walk with God.” It is a wonderful simile. We say we are on a “spiritual journey.” I have found that the difficulty is always in making the decision at the forks in the road. This is especially true when I can’t quite see the end of the path. I often think that if I could just see over the rise ahead I might be able to make a better decision. The truth is that we would only be further confused if we could see ahead of the path. The whole of faith in Christ is that we only need to see as far as the length of our arm to our hand. It is there that we find His hand and can know that we are on the right path. He knows the way because he is the way. Regardless of the many choices we are faced with in our lives, walking hand in hand with Jesus will never lead us off the right path. Knowing that, there are some things that we can concentrate on that will help us through all the twists and turns of life. 1. First, we should seek to live with a constant grateful awareness of God. One of the great things about living in Texas now is the ability to sit on the porch at night and watch the sunset. I am always amazed how wonderful God is in giving us such simple pleasures. 2. Secondly, it means to live with a heart continually open to the indwelling presence of Christ. I often find myself pondering the great miracle of the Creator God living within me. As mysterious as that is, it is undeniable in its truth. Living with that knowledge helps me make decisions that lead to success. 3. Third, it means to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit consistently. Enoch was certainly not perfect; however, he was consistent in following God’s direction. Even when it didn’t seem logical, he followed God. And, of course, the whole idea of daily life as walking with God depends upon prayer. When we are walking with God it must mean not running on ahead because of our impatience. It means not lagging behind because of my fears. It means immediate and constant discernment of God’s will. There are times when we will offer our efforts to God and times when we simply rest in the divine love given to us. In both work and rest we are with God and God with us. And it all happens through prayer. Talk to your Father in heaven. Just talk to Him. It will be a pleasant surprise how you will find you way so much better.