For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears...Matthew 13:15

Recently I was visiting a place that was quite and serene and away from the big city.  I love the feeling of a small town and couldn't wait to go make my daily run.  I woke up, took in the beauty of the morning  and set off.  I had my ipod and my buds ready to listen to some music as I ventured along.  I very quickly found that I was indeed in some very foreign territory.  I ran through inclines, twists and turns and long stretches.  While I was listening to my music, I was making a mental note of my route.  I was lost in the issue of how I was getting further and further away from my hotel.  As I was travelling, I found that I had attracted an angry dog that was steadily keeping up with me.  I was so lost in my music and other issues that I never realized he was there. 

It reminded me of something my pastor once said.  Referring to individuals that lose sight of their christian walk he said  "When you step across the line, it affects your hearing."  I stepped into unfamilliar ground and was so lost in my music and route that I did not even see the dog much less hear him.  I could have suffered a bite from the animal without the opportunity to defend myself because I did not hear him approaching.  When I realized he was there, he had already taken his place next to me. 

Recognizing the danger, I slowed my pace and he eventually left me.  How many times do we find ourselves in foreign territory outside of the will of Christ?  There would be nothing worse than allowing our hearts to become pre-occupied or calloused to the point that it affected our hearing.  God speaks us through His word.  However, we have to have an open heart to receive and open ears to hear.

If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm. Psalm 37:23

Ever walked in sand on the beach and seen footprints?  I often follow the footsteps and may even step into the footprint and complete the walk.  I have realized in my daily walk that I can not depend on my steps alone.  Decisions, direction, guidance have to come from my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

He orders my footsteps and it is important for me to see "His Steps First" and follow.  Too many times, I try to lead or go my own way or follow my own instinct rather than following His direction.  My days of walking in someone else's footsteps are long gone.  My prayer today is that I may let Him lead and remember that He goes before me.