I have always found this quote haunting. It dares and warns at the same time. Right now in my life, I see before me an array of different paths. At the entrance of each one stands a bell with this inscription, daring me to strike it.

One path I can see clearly for a long distance. It’s safe and well-maintained. There are places to rest, and a gentle stream runs beside it. An easy path for a weary traveler. Another I can see some of the way. There are tall mountains and rushing rivers, the trail is unmarked and it could be dangerous. But it also holds the greatest possibility for excitement and adventures. Still yet another path before me is completely shrouded in mist. No matter how hard I try to look, I cannot see anything past the signpost and the bell. Perhaps there is no path at all. Still, something about it draws me to it.

I know as I look around me even more paths and corresponding bells will become apparent. I must make a choice eventually. The thing is, once I choose one to strike I can never go back to the others. So how do I choose?

Jeremiah 6:16
“Stand at the crossroads and look;
ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is, and walk in it,
and you will find rest for your souls.
Isaiah 42:16
I will lead the blind by ways they have not known,
along unfamiliar paths I will guide them;
I will turn the darkness into light before them
and make the rough places smooth.
These are the things I will do;
I will not forsake them.