Curb Appeal

(Thanks to my dear husband for the inspiration for this one.)

There used to be a television show in which landscape artists and contractors picked out a house in a neighborhood to improve the house's "curb appeal."  The transformations were often incredible, the houses ended up being much more attractive, and the owners were usually elated.

In our lives, we may often find ourselves at a crossroads, a choice between two actions or two paths.  One path may be lined with beautiful plants and picket fences.  It may have great "curb appeal."  The other path may be lined with brambles and thorns.  It may seem dark and foreboding.  But we must choose one.

Twice the Scriptures repeat this verse:

Proverbs 14:12  Proverbs 16:25

"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, 

but the end thereof are the ways of death."

Because the verse is listed twice, I think we should be doubly sure the path we select is the Lord's choice for us.  We cannot lean upon our own understanding because too often we would choose the "curb appeal" over the dark and foreboding place.  As we walk our paths, too, we must remember  "As for God, His way is perfect," (2 Samuel 22:31.)  If we walk in His path, even the brambles and thorns will have a perfect place and purpose in our lives.

To quote the line from a favorite older movie, "Choose wisely."

  Proverbs 3: 5-7

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  

In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.  

Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. "