That makes turning corners challenging, and I have noticed the Wrong Way sign on the interstate many times. Thankfully, we haven't turned down that way!
Psalm 36 was my reading today, and it came with a huge Wrong Way sign. Verse four reads, "He setteth himself in a way that is not good."
David has been describing the man who chooses to go his own way. This man (or woman) ignores God. They flatter themselves, thinking they know best, and hate begins filling their hearts. Then, what is in the heart comes out of the mouth, and all wisdom fails. They find themselves thinking about how they can get even, how they can give someone a piece of their mind, or make a point, not for good or to resolve a problem, but to hurt the other person as they have been hurt. They grow full of pride and attack anyone who tries to point them back to the way of God. They have set themselves on a way that is not good.
And there they sit, stewing in their hate and regret, but too proud to kneel and ask forgiveness of God, seek resolution, or admit their own sin and wrongdoing.
Until they turn around, they are driving their lives the wrong way, and a collision is bound to happen.
The right way is also described in the psalm. It is full of God's great mercy, abundant provision, light, and lovingkindness.
Here is the interesting thing. We all travel the path of life together, and we see how each of us manages our lives. The choices we make determine the outcome. God says there are two paths to follow: the broad way or the narrow way. The paths are also described as light and darkness, as evil or good, and as truth or deceit. One leads to joy and life, the other to hatred and death. We know which path we are on by the fruit of our lives.
Sadly, those going the wrong way hate those going the right way. Maybe they are envious or confused about how to direct their lives. Maybe their hurts and life choices keep them prideful and unable to change their path. Or maybe no one has shared the light of the gospel with them.
Oh, let that not ever be said. When you meet someone whose life is set in a way that is not good, take time to lovingly speak truth to them. Don't let them ever say no one cared enough to speak up.
David's closing prayer was, "Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me” (vs 11). Stay on the right path! Yet, reach out in love and concern for those going the wrong way.
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