Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. – Psalm 119:105
We were interested in buying a computer, but before we made our purchase, I wanted some additional information. In my searching, I discovered a little book called, “A Rough Guide to Computers.” The title was interesting enough to cause me to buy the book. The publisher and writers of the book deserve a compliment on a job well done, although I was more struck by the title than anything else.
Consider what would happen if we were to put the words, “A Rough Guide to . . .” before these thoughts: getting to the moon, flying an airplane, choosing a wife, holding a marriage together, or obtaining God's eternal salvation. Clearly, a rough guide would not be sufficient! The subject matter is complex enough that a cursory study would be woefully inadequate.
One of my friends used to be an airplane mechanic. When training a young man to be an airplane mechanic, he would sometimes ask the question, “How is the airplane?” If the trainee answered with something like, “Well, it will get by,” my friend would often refer the trainee to another line of work. He wanted more than a rough guide to maintenance quality. We can appreciate the integrity of my friend, especially, if we were to fly in that airplane.
God’s Word is not a “'Rough Guide for Life.” Indeed, it is a detailed instruction manual for our entire lives. While it does not tell us anything about computers or airplanes, it does give instruction on how to find God. If we acknowledge God in all of our ways, He has given us the promise that He will direct our paths. This is not a “Rough Guide,” but specific help that will lead to eternity in Heaven.
Sometimes, as God directs the details of our lives, He gives us a surprise. For example, I typed this devotional on a computer that was given to me as a gift while I was still reading the instructional book, “A Rough Guide to Computers.” A gentleman was moving his office and no longer had use for the computer, and another man and his wife gave me a printer. While I was not advertising my need, God knew it and He provided. Is it any wonder that the Psalmist could say, “Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me up to Glory”?
God’s instructions to us are complete and thorough. Our challenge is to apply His instructions to our lives one day at a time. May He help us to follow His directions today.