Contemplative Bible Reading

Jeremiah 6:16 (New International Version)

This is what the LORD says:
“Stand at the crossroads and look;
ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is, and walk in it,
and you will find rest for your souls.
But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’

Look at the middle section of this verse:

ask where the good way is

First, there is a good way, a way that will lead to rest for my soul.

Second, I should ask for that way. Well, maybe some other people should ask for it. I am in good shape already and I know what is good for me and I don’t need to ask someone else and so on. I don’t ask because asking would admit that there is something important that I don’t already know. My sinful pride keeps my from asking. Ouch.

Third, I have to walk in that way. Well, same as above. My sinful pride keeps me from going there.

Fourth, rest for my soul? I don’t need rest for my soul. My soul is really strong. Only weaklings need rest for their souls, no, not for me.

Oh well. Sinful pride.

There is a good way out there. I probably don’t know where it is. I probably could use it and the benefits of rest for my soul.

God, help me push aside that pride. Help me to seek, find, and walk the good way. Grant me rest for my soul.