[196 words]
While driving to the office, I noticed a slightly battered pickup in front of me. What caught my attention was the rear wheels were not aligned with the front. It traveled slightly sideways down the road. The chassis, or rear axle, needed to be straightened or realigned. This problem is more easily seen by an observer who follows behind.
The Hebrew writer penned, “And make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed” (Hebrews 12:13). “Straight paths” is literally “wheel tracks.” Let your direction be straight, so that these who follow you have a plain and clear direction.
How do we know our wheel tracks are straight? When we have association with other Christians we might hear a prayer that points us to the right path, preaching that provides a clear principle; a passage that pricks our conscience, a person who pushes us gently towards perfection.
We can all use a little help in getting things straight. Those around us may be able at times to view our wheel tracks more clearly. So hang around Christians every chance you get.
Rick Laing
Highland Village Church of Christ
Austin, TX