The evening was drawing in as I sat under the trees and listened for the quieting calls of the birds as the sun settled behind me. Quietness and prayer. I spent some moments just reflecting on the day before praying about what blessings I had that day. My eyes where closed for some time relaxed in this place. Suddenly I heard a twig snap and I opened my eyes. A fox darted from its hole and ran across in front of my field of view. Watching it run freely seemed to slow down time as it crossed the forest floor, its red coat shining against what light was left of the day before it disappeared into the vanishing undergrowth and the forest settled into its quieting hymn for the evening.

Only moments later the contrast of a motorbike’s engine rattled like a snake bursting onto the scene tearing through the calm to leave only hurt. Youths raced pass walkers nearly missing a child and hurling abuse at any comments. The clear fresh air being replaced by the nauseating smell of fumes.

Psalm 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Life can seem unfair to many, and many people make the wrong choices. I’ve made wrong choices but I believe my faith is a choice that is right and based upon truth. When every part of your world is against you it may seem hard to make the right choices and seem easier to just resort back to the life of the old self, the sinful self, becoming angry self obsessed again. One thing I have noticed this week is that the devil seems to leave you alone when you are not bothering him, but when you try to establish a prayer routine you will start to draw the attention of the enemy and he will undoubtedly not want you to pray, that is the key. Distraction is his weapon.

Who would not want the paths of joy and life? It seems that the world is attractive, sin seems attractive when you are in the midst of it but is just addiction and addiction is not good. Jesus offers every believer an addiction free joy that surpasses what any worldly vice could give. The joy that Jesus offers does not suppress our minds but renews them.

Romans 12:2: Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Dear Lord, help me to daily walk your path of light, and joy, experiencing your presence in every way that you have ordained. Amen