🙌 Your Way or God's Way

Scripture

"There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.." — Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV)

Devotional Thoughts

We all have an inner compass — our instincts, experiences, and emotions — that tries to guide us through life. Sometimes, what feels right makes perfect sense to us logically and emotionally. Yet Scripture warns us: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." Left to ourselves, even our best intentions can lead us astray.

This is the ongoing story of flesh versus spirit, self-interest versus divine calling. Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, is a sobering example. Judas, driven by personal gain and disillusioned expectations, betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14–16). To Judas, this decision likely seemed justified or advantageous at the moment — perhaps even logical. Yet the path he chose ended in overwhelming regret and destruction.

Contrast Judas with Peter. Peter also struggled with human reasoning (remember when he tried to prevent Jesus from going to the cross?), yet ultimately, Peter chose the way of surrender. He left his fishing nets, his livelihood, and followed Jesus. Though imperfect and impulsive, Peter aligned his life to the will of God. After the resurrection, Peter became a foundational leader in the early Church.

Our flesh often screams for comfort, recognition, or immediate results. The Spirit calls us to obedience, sacrifice, and trust — even when it doesn't make perfect sense. The critical question is: Whose way are we following?

Practical Reflection

• Are there decisions you are facing where your logic says "this is right," but God's Word or Spirit gently warns otherwise?

• Have you ever chosen what "felt right" only to later realize it was a detour from God's best?

• What would it look like today to pause and seek God's way over your own?

Choosing God's way may cost you something — pride, comfort, or earthly treasures — but it always leads to life, peace, and eternal reward.

Closing Thoughts

Following God's way requires humility and faith. It's about trusting that His thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8–9), and that even when His way seems harder, it is ultimately for our good and His glory. Judas teaches us that selfishness leads to sorrow; Peter shows us that surrender leads to purpose. Today, let's surrender our ways and embrace His.

Prayer

Father, I’m so grateful for Your Word—it truly lights up the path when everything else feels dim. I’m sorry for the times I’ve trusted my own way instead of leaning into Yours. Please help me to quiet the noise of my own desires so I can hear Your Spirit clearly. Teach me to let go of my need for control, and to follow You even when I don’t have all the answers. Just like Peter, give me the courage to leave behind whatever holds me back and walk boldly in Your direction. Strengthen me to choose You, not just today, but every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.