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Coon Trails

I grew up in south Georgia and I spent a lot of time on Jekyll Island.  My grandfather grew up there on the island where his father was the island gamekeeper.  As a result, Grandpa knew the island in a way few do, and one of the things he used to say was, "Be careful going off down those coon trails."

I'm a fraidy cat, so I was never out of shouting distance from Grandpa.  In fact, I don't remember a time when I couldn't see at least a glimpse of his shirt. 

Anyway, our Scott recently said something that reminded of those times with Grandpa.  He was checking the accuracy of a compass and said, "It's not off by much, but after a while I'd be a long way from where I'd want to be." 

The same is true when I know the Word of God but allow my understanding to reshape it so it's easier to follow...or when instead of walking by the Spirit, I go a more interesting or easier way.  I don't set out to stray, but before I know it, I have no idea where I am or how I got into the tangled mess that surrounds me.

Fortunately, the LORD always knows right where I am, and He always hears me call Him.  AND, He's more than able to help me.  He walks with me, holds my hand, and He even carries me through those places I'm not able to walk.

Sometimes Grandpa would turn and call if I got further away than he liked.  "Barbie?!"

That was my cue.  Grandpa wanted me closer. 

LORD, I don't always hear Your call, and I get so focused on what I'm doing that I lose sight of You.  Thank You for not losing sight of me.  Thank You for hearing me.  Thank You for rescuing me from my own choices.  Help me delight in You so much that my greatest desire is to walk right by Your side.  Thank You LORD!  Amen.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.  Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)

Since we are living by the spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.  Galatians 5:25 (NLT)

The LORD directs the steps of the godly.  He delights in every detail of their lives.  Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand.  Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT)


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