When we think of a road that can handle daily, heavy traffic, such as the main road between two cities, we picture a highway. Our hearts have highways, too. Where those paths lead depends on where we pin our hopes. Desiring God, knowing that only he can satisfy, moves us toward joy and peace as surely as envy leads to discontentment and arrogance to alienation.
Zion, another name for Jerusalem, is where Solomon built the temple as the dwelling place for the ark of God. So, the psalmists often used Zion to signify the presence of God. Imagine highways in your heart leading directly to God’s presence. These well-tread paths are created by days, months, and years of seeking to know God and be known by him.
When we desire God, we ponder his all-powerful, all-knowing, holy, righteous, just, faithful, merciful, unchanging, gentle, and loving attributes. We remember his works, such as how he created the universe, spoke through shepherds, prophets, and fishermen in the Bible, and sent Jesus to save us. We recount the personal ways he’s revealed himself to us, forgiven us, and provided for our needs.
Psalm 84 paints a beautiful picture. Those who find strength in God and have highways in their hearts to Zion, bring refreshment wherever they go. They transform the “Valley of Baca”, a dry and barren wilderness, into a place of springs and pools of water.
Let’s walk toward God today. As each day passes, may that trail become a highway.
God, create a highway in me that leads right into your presence. From the moment I wake until I finally fall asleep at night, may my thoughts continually be on you. Amen.
Go Deeper — Do you travel the same road most days? As you travel that path today, think about the paths God has made to draw you closer to him. How well-trod are they?
Photo Credit: Scott Dukette