Old Familiar Paths

Isaiah 43:16-21 ~

"This is what the LORD says—

he who made a way through the sea,

a path through the mighty waters,

who drew out the chariots and horses,

the army and reinforcements together,

and they lay there, never to rise again,

extinguished, snuffed out like a wick:

“Forget the former things;

do not dwell on the past.

See, I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness

and streams in the wasteland.

The wild animals honor me,

the jackals and the owls,

because I provide water in the wilderness

and streams in the wasteland,

to give drink to my people, my chosen,

the people I formed for myself

that they may proclaim my praise"

It's easy to walk down old and familiar paths.  Ways of responding that have become second nature.  

Impatience.  Anger.  Irritation.  Raised voices.

Words that barb and scar.




Yet, I don't want to keep choosing the easy path.  Easy because it's familiar.  Easy because it gives me an instant rush of release, but leaves feelings of guilt, remorse and hurt.

The path I choose will also influence my children.  They are mirror images of their parents.  Often when I hear them talking to each other with the same irritation and annoyance I realize that my example hasn't shown them the new path I'm supposed to be on.



The path of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

BUT.....

With Christ there is also forgiveness.  There is a fresh start.  There is the ability to get back up in His strength and start over.

The new path will bring me refreshment in the wilderness.  It will nourish and provide rest.

And, unlike the old paths I walked in before, I can ask for forgiveness.

And it is freely given.

Given by my husband.  My children.  My Lord.



The new path is harder because it requires me to humble myself.  To choose the more difficult thing.  But ultimately, it is the path that leads to life and love and joy.

So I'm continuing to leave behind the old familiar path and walking on my new one.


This week I'm thankful for blessings #923-935.

♥ Windows open and a warm breeze blowing in.
♥ Walking and taking in all the sights, sounds and smells of creation.

♥ Crocuses, the first sign of Spring.



♥ A tasty blend of eggs, cheese, peppers and onions.
♥ Making a difference in young girls' lives.

♥ Emily, willing to give up her Saturday to help out with the fire department by face painting.


♥ Knowing for a moment that God's hand is on my children.
♥ The yeasty smell of bread baking.

♥ A successful craft fair.



♥ The perfect job for Stephen.
♥ Deep lines in my husband's face that shows his care and responsibility.

♥ Praying with dear friends for medical concerns.


and finally...

♥ Walking in new paths.