From the DAWGHouse…
It’s Not Up to You to Get Back on the Path
If you were at Forge this week, you heard a riveting message from John Farwell. Missed it? You can view it at ForgeTruth.com. For those who did hear the message, I’d challenge you to share his message with others.
While it would be nearly impossible to communicate all that John taught us in this short blog, my summary is that life is full of moments when we stumble. Whether through sin, distraction, or discouragement, we often find ourselves off the narrow path God has set before us. In those moments, the world may tell us, “Pick yourself up and get back on track.” But from a biblical perspective, the truth is more freeing: It’s not up to you to get back on the path.
Scripture is clear that our salvation and restoration are not works of our own strength. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The gospel is not about making ourselves worthy to return to God; it’s about God’s relentless pursuit of us, even in our failures.
Consider the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15. When one sheep stray, the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to find the one. The sheep does not navigate its way back to the flock. The shepherd pursues, lifts it upon his shoulders, and carries it home. This is a beautiful picture of God’s grace. He doesn’t wait for us to prove our sincerity or determination. He comes to us.
While it’s not up to us to forge our own way back, repentance is part of the journey. But even repentance is a response to God’s kindness (Romans 2:4). Like the prodigal son, we may come to our senses and desire to return home. Yet even then, it is the Father who runs to meet us, clothing us in His righteousness and celebrating our return.
This truth offers comfort when we feel burdened by guilt or shame. When King David sinned grievously, he didn’t rely on self-repair. Instead, he cried out, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). David knew only God could restore him.
Once we’ve been restored, we are called to walk in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). But even our daily obedience is empowered by God. Philippians 2:13 assures us, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
When you find yourself straying – which I have done more times than I can count – remember that the pressure is not on you to find your way back. Cry out to the Lord. His grace will meet you where you are. Trust in His promises, lean on His strength, and allow the Good Shepherd to guide us home.
If you’re feeling lost or distant from God today, know that He has not abandoned you. His love is steadfast, and His mercy is new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). Rest in the truth that it’s not up to you to get back on the path…
The Shepherd is already on His way to bring you home.
That’s Freedom that only the King can offer!
Joe Bouch
