“I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. Hold up my goings in Thy paths” (Psalm 17:4-5).

These words were penned by King David many years ago. The wise king actually was saying to the Lord, “Please keep me from the violent ways, and help me to do Your will for my life.” What a dynamic prayer that was for David. What an incredibly dynamic prayer that will be for us today as well. Stan quit his job at the foundry and took the huge step of faith by moving his family across the country so that he could enroll in Bible College. For six years Stan and his family sacrificed greatly for him to finish his Bible education. What a promising pastor Stan would be! He was a great speaker and had a commanding presence as he entered the pulpit. He was also a people person and was noted for being outgoing and friendly. The first six years of his pastoral ministry were marked by occasions of great blessing. But then the people started noticing that something was just not right. Sure enough! Stan had been unfaithful to his wife and now his home, family, and ministry were destroyed. When the older pastor arrived at Stan’s home, he found Stan crumpled at the end of the couch weeping because he had not followed the Lord’s path for his life. Fortunately for Stan, there would be forgiveness and restoration in his marriage but not in his ministry. From this great tragedy you and I must learn that there are paths that are wicked and will destroy our lives. We must keep off of them and stay on God’s path.

For today: Learn from Stan’s tragedy. Stay on God’s path for your life.