Sunday Reflection on Tripping and Falling

Bad decisions have consequences, bad actions do too. When my kids were little, they thought I had dumb rules. While in the house, you had to act civilized, not run and use inside voices. But one day true to form, my little son ran through the house at top speed. Then it happened; he tripped, fell and hurt his leg. Immediately, he ran to me crying and upset. He said, “Mommy, why didn’t you stop me from running in the house? Didn't you know I would hurt myself?” He was blaming me for his decision to run against the rules.

“There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.” Proverbs 14:12 (NIV)

Life is like that. Those things we entertain and dwell on are, most likely, what we become. If we overeat we gain weight and could have health issues. If we drive too fast, we might get speeding tickets and higher insurance premiums.  If we cheat on our spouses or taxes, there will be consequences.

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”  Galatians 5: 7-10 (NIV)

There is reward in doing what is right – if not today then tomorrow.  God tells us to practice what is noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable – excellent things (Philippians 4:8). His well planned path is for our benefit.

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but when we do there’s less tripping and falling.

-T