by Dr. Paul Chappell

"Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light."

Ephesians 5:1-8

God's Word is your map, the Holy Spirit is your daily guide, and Christ is your example.

In California, a highway (Highway 1) spans the western California coast and leads drivers past some of the most beautiful oceanside landscape in our nation. Starting in Southern California, in Orange County, and parts of Los Angeles, the highway is a city street, named the Pacific Coast Highway. The road then winds from Southern California to Santa Monica through Malibu and to Oxnard. Million dollar homes line the coast, showcasing beautiful architecture to those passing by. On the highway's stretch from San Luis Obispo to San Francisco, travelers can pass by the Hearst Castle, the Big Sur coast, Carmel, Monterrey, and Santa Cruz. The road continues through San Francicso to 19th Street, then on to the Golden Gate Bridge. From the Golden Gate Bridge, travelers are taken through Marin, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties. All in all, the highway gives its riders the chance to witness breathtaking sights, watch the powerful ocean roar, and admire the wonders of God's creation.

Although the highway is a straight shot from Southern California to Northern California, travelers would be wise to take a map, GPS, or some type of guidance. Maneuvering the coastal cities can prove tricky at times, and a map is vital to not getting lost.

In our lives, it is wise to have a map on our life's journey. Unlike preparing for a trip, we cannot simply purchase a map or enter our end coordinates into a GPS device. But God has provided us with a map for our journey. He's given us His Word to show us the way, and His Spirit to guide us as we take step after step each day. How foolish would beginning a journey without a map be? Some of us would like to believe we know the way, but truth is, we all need help along the way.

Notice God's words in Ephesians 5: "Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour." Need a guide and example for life? Jesus has lived on this earth, dealt with earthly struggles and pressures, and lived a righteous life.

In every area of life, look to Christ as an example. God's Word is your map, the Holy Spirit is your daily guide, and Christ is your example. Need help in your marriage? Look at what Jesus taught about love, respect, and marriage. Need help with your children? Look at Jesus' words on raising children. Struggling with sin? Look at how Jesus responded to temptation. There is nothing you can go through that Jesus hasn't given you advice and help for in His Word.

Over the next few days, we're going to look at areas in which we need the Holy Spirit's leading in life. We can't make it through life on our own. We must have God's guidance and help each day.

Have you asked God for guidance today? Don't discount God's guidance. Without it, the devil will lead you astray even in the most basic areas of your life. Spend some time now with God's map. Look at Christ's example, and as you live today, listen to God's guiding Spirit and follow His guidance.

To learn more about the ministries of Lancaster Baptist Church and Pastor Chappell, please visit lancasterbaptist.org, paulchappell.com, or follow him on twitter.

Daily Bible Reading
Job 20-21 | Acts 10:24-48