Straight Street
By Maria Drayton
The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.” Acts 9:11
When I read this story in the Bible I almost missed it. So much so I had to go back and read the entire story in Acts 9. Saul, whose name was changed to Paul, was blinded after he had met the Lord on the road to Damascus. He could not see at all for three days, because of the blindness. I’m guessing maybe Saul was angry or upset because of the loss of his vision. He probably didn’t know what else to do but pray. He had been told by Jesus to go into the city and this is where he would find his next direction. But he was blind and the bible says he did not eat or drink anything for three days. Was he praying for his next direction? Was he praying for his sight? What I find most interesting is that not only did he travel to a home in Damascus but it was on a street called straight.
I saw a picture of Straight street in Damascus and I was surprised to see (I don’t know why) that it was Straight! It was completely straight for miles and miles and everything (stores, shops, etc.) were in a straight line!!! Although he was blind and being led, all he really had to do was go straight.
It’s interesting but there are several times throughout the Bible straight is referred to.
In all your ways submit to Him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:6 NIV
Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me. Psalm 5:8 NIV
He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle. Psalm 107:7 NIV
Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. Psalm 27:11 NIV
Folly brings joy to one who has no sense, but whoever has understanding keeps a straight course. Proverbs 15:21 NIV
Psalm 32:8 (NIV) tells us, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” His ways are straight and narrow but nevertheless straight!!!
I believe that we make it harder on ourselves: when we choose to be disobedient, when we don’t choose forgiveness, when we judge others, when we don’t love others. When do these things we get off the straight path that’s been designed for us.
Let us remember that His ways are easy and His burden is light and the path has already been prepared for us. All we need to do is keep straight!
Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me Your ways. You alone keep me on my straight path. My desire is to do Your will for my life without my own twists and turns. I want to stay committed to You in everything that I am and do. Help me to stay the course and reach my expected end in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
For more encouragement, visit Maria at mariadrayton.com.
© 2020 by Maria Drayton. All rights reserved.
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