Several years ago Marcus Hummon along with Bobby Boyd and Jeff Hanna wrote a song called, "God Blessed the Broken Road". It’s been recorded several times by different artists; the one with which I’m most familiar is by Selah. The song, although written as a romantic one, just as easily pictures a person progressing through life on the straight and narrow walk of faith.
Consideration of the straight and narrow road is familiar but considered less often are the detours, the potholes, the steep hills, the deep valleys one incurs along the way. Many seem to believe that once you make it through the narrow gate onto the road called Straight it is smooth sailing the rest of the way. Nothing could be further from the truth for no one grows to maturity without growing pains.
"I set out on a narrow way many years ago…I got lost a time or two…I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you…"
The process of maturity is not an easy one. We tend to get a lot of bumps and bruises along the way because we make poor choices. But even through that difficult process, the Holy Spirit is always there speaking to us, leading us in the way we should go if we would just recognize and listen to His pleadings. The bumps and bruises happen when we pull so strongly against the lead in order to go our own way. Only in retrospect do we realize we should have listened more carefully to the gentle voice of God, (I Kings 19:12-13) tugging at our heart, mind, and soul.
"I think about the years I spent just passing through; I'd like to have the time I lost and give it back to you…"
Unfortunately, the process of spiritual maturity can take many years and regret of what we may consider time lost is ridiculous. God works continually shaping us into the person He wants us to be; He is the Potter, we are the clay, (Isaiah 64:8).
"…You just smile and take my hand, you've been there you understand; it's all part of a grander plan that is coming true…"
In James, chapter 1, verses 2-4, we find these words: "Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing, (HCSB). My dear friends, God not only blessed the broken road but more importantly He continues to bless it!
