The dogs loved the freedom to run through the desert and the boys were equally excited to join them. They joyfully ran a distance ahead of us, laughing as they went. Keegan fell twice, but seemed to be having too much fun to care. Only occasionally would the boys attempt to go off on a different path when the road forked; at this point we would call them back and they would come. In this manner, we could dust them off when they fell or pick them up when they got tired. We were also close to protect them from danger.
This morning I related our walk with the boys to my walk with God. I thought about the joy it brought me to watch our grandsons enjoy themselves on our walk together. I was blessed to see to their protection and to watch Keegan step on every weed as if he were a conquering hero. Camden loved to run far ahead and we let him until he got nearer to the street. Then I easily caught up to him and made sure he did not cross alone. I decided God must have a similar joy to let me run free, delighting Himself in my discoveries, in His world, but I must always stay on the path he has chosen for me. I must be able to hear His voice and respond because I am only safe in His presence.
This afternoon, during lunch, I picked up the book I was reading by Warren Wiersbe, "On Being a Servant of God." I was amazed at what I read on page 103. Relating how he asked God for a promise to sustain him for what he anticipated would be a difficult future in ministry, Wiersbe cited Psalm 16:11. Emphatically, Wiersbe proclaimed, "Life! Joy! Peace!, For those who walk in God's path, live in God's presence, and seek God's pleasure." I am awestruck.
Psalm 16:11
You will show me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
