Walk with Christ

Colossians 1.10-12

1:10 That you may walk as it is worthy of the Lord, pleasing in all things, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God;
1:11 strengthened with all power, according to the power of his glory, for all patience and long-suffering;
1:12 with joy giving thanks to the Father who made us fit to partake of the inheritance of the saints in light;

The way of faith has a divine purpose, and we must obey no matter what happens. But even when God's direction is disconcerting, we can count on his mercy.

Walking obediently with Christ does not guarantee an easy life; that is evident when we think of the apostle Paul. He faced all kinds of difficulties, including shipwrecks, persecutions and lashes (2 Co 11.23-27). But keep in mind that nothing can touch a believer without God's permission. He uses difficulties to strengthen and discipline believers; and, in the long run, to carry out his final plan. Let us also remember that the Lord protects his faithful in their suffering, as well as preserved the Apostle Paul in situations that seemed hopeless.

Adversity can tempt us to ignore the direction of the Holy Spirit. But, in the end, we will regret that decision, since God does not free us from the consequences of our sin. However, He never abandons his children, whom he will continue to protect and guide throughout his life.

Walking in obedience and faith is the only way that leads to true peace. While Paul was in an uncomfortable Roman prison where his life was in danger, he encouraged believers not to be anxious but to pray with gratitude. Doing this leads to experiencing a peace that is beyond what we are capable of understanding (Is 26.3, Fil 4.6).

Isaiah 26: 3

26: 3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind abides in you; because in you he has trusted.

Philippians 4: 6

4: 6 Be anxious for nothing, but let your requests be made known to God in all prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving.

The only wise way to live is by trusting Almighty God and going where He directs us. That is the path to happiness, satisfaction, protection and peace. Are you walking the path of faith, or is there something that is stopping what God has set for your life?