A common phenomenon in nature is “the path of least resistance.” Electricity moving through a circuit will always travel where it has the “easiest” route. Cars are developed aerodynamically so there will be minimal wind resistance. Rivers always travel around a mountain because it is easier than going through one.
Frequently people are like that, too. It is easier to sit in front of the T.V. than to care for a neighbor’s needs. It is easier to get angry at your mate and let that anger diminish (or smolder) over the course of time rather than sitting down and working the problem through. Playing a game on your computer is much easier than finding time to read the Bible. And so we find that we humans are prone to take the “path of least resistance.”
But there is one difference between ourselves and electricity or a river. They will never have to give an account of what they have done. We will!! Thus, perhaps we should incline ourselves to take the path of greatest persistence.
Thanks to Michael P. Green
My Commentary:
Nature’s “path of least resistance” reminds us how easily we, too, drift toward what is comfortable, convenient, and safe. Rivers flow around obstacles, electricity seeks the easiest route and we often do the same — choosing comfort over courage, distraction over discipline, and ease over effort.
Yet while nature follows instinct, we are moral and spiritual beings with a higher calling.
The difference is accountability. Rivers and lightning have no conscience. But we do — and with that comes responsibility.
Taking the “path of least resistance” may spare us struggle, but it also stunts our growth. The “path of greatest persistence” is the way of faith, character, and love. It means doing the hard thing when it would be easier to look away, forgive when it would be easier to resent, and pray when it would be easier to give up.
The current of grace doesn’t always flow where it’s easiest — it flows where hearts are willing to keep going.
What are some of the “paths of least resistance” in YOUR life? What “path of great persistence” do YOU need to be on?
SOMETIMES YOUR BLESSINGS COME TO YOU IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS: THROUGH PAIN AND TROUBLE!
Do share today’s Message with some Young People that you know.
