Coloring Inside the Lines

“Thus, saith the Lord, ‘Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.’ But they said, ‘We will not walk therein.’” (Jeremiah 6:16)

Coloring was one of my favorite past times as a young child. Before I colored a page, I heavily outlined each object with the crayon of choice. Though this process took a little longer, it was easier to stay inside the lines once I set each boundary, and the finished picture looked nice.

At the beginning of creation, God set boundaries in the heavens; everything stays in its place. For humanity, He set boundary lines through His Word, making clear the paths of blessing we should walk in this life. When you are uncertain of the path to take, especially at crossroads, stop: ask God which way to go; seek a trusted source; learn from God’s Word how His faithful people handled such decisions. The “old paths” are the trodden ones proven trustworthy by the saints of old. The excellent walkway is the narrower one, more difficult, leading to blessings and rest for weary souls.

The people told Jeremiah they would not walk that right way. Rejecting God’s boundaries, His ways, and His paths, they had no rest for their souls spent in captivity. God’s “old paths” have not changed over time; they are the same good and trustworthy choice today. Coloring outside the lines in a coloring book makes unattractive results; living contrary to God’s Word produces an unbalanced life and one that does not draw people to Christ’s saving grace. Choose to color—live—inside God’s guidelines. Experience refreshing rest and the Father’s blessings for a life well-lived.