Teach Me Your Ways

Make your ways known to me, LORD; teach me your paths. –Psalm 25.4 (CSB)

I finished tiling my kitchen earlier today and am now working on grouting. Besides my master bath, this is the only tiling job I have done and now it is almost complete. When Dad first taught me how to tile a few months ago it felt awkward, and the motions required seemed unnatural. In fact, any time I have undertaken a new project that requires a new skill, there is always a level of awkwardness on my part. I ask: “What in the world am I doing? I won’t be able to do this.” Yet, in each thing—woodworking, small engine repair, welding, forestry, and soon, leatherwork—all the things seemed awkward and unnatural when I first began. But I kept at it. I would ask questions from those who knew more than I did. I would make mental notes about how to improve the process and the outcome. I sought to be teachable and determined to keep my focus on the task.
 
And so it is with following Jesus: We must be taught. This is no small task; without his leadership and prompting, our attempts to follow are as useful as a lead balloon. We must submit ourselves to his way; this is a continual, lifelong process. He is not finished with us, nor will he be finished with us this side of glory (Phil. 1.6; 2.12-13).
 
As we learn to follow, our relationship deeps, our understanding broadens, our love intensifies. I think of older saints who have been married for decades. Their marriages are richer and deeper today than it was at the genesis! Why? Because they’ve journeyed together—through victories and defeats, sickness and health, and for richer and poorer. 
 
The Psalmist asked the Lord to show him His paths and teach him His ways. The psalmist desired greater intimacy with and greater knowledge of the Lord as he journeyed with Him. Only through a faithful journey with Jesus can we grow closer to Him, be transformed by him, and be a people devoted to Him, His Kingdom, and His mission.
 
You and I won’t follow him perfectly, but we can follow him faithfully. Keep your eyes on the author and perfector of your faith (Heb. 12.2) and allow him to teach you how to follow him more faithfully today and every day.

For Reflection
In what areas of your life do you need God’s leadership and insight? 
 
In what areas do you still need to grow? 
 
What is the Lord teaching you in this season of life?
 
Pray
Pray and ask God to teach you his ways as you follow him day-by-day. Pray that he would teach you to follow him more faithfully.
 
Father, thank you that you teach me how to follow you with each day that passes. Show me where I must yield to you and please enable me to submit to you and learn from you. I love you and I thank you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.