April 16 - Choosing the Right Path

APRIL 16 - Choosing the Right Path3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 14:18–19; Mark 16//⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠3-Year Bible Devotional Book (Year Two) Available on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠//________________________________________“The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. The evil bow down before the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.” — Proverbs 14:18–19 (ESV)“And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.” — Mark 16:5–8 (ESV)________________________________________Life is full of choices that shape who we become. Sometimes it’s easy to follow the crowd or do what seems fun at the moment, but Proverbs 14:18–19 reminds us that simple or thoughtless choices often lead to trouble, while wise, thoughtful decisions lead to growth and honor. The women at Jesus’ tomb in Mark 16 experienced something incredible, but fear kept them silent at first. Their response reminds us that even in moments of confusion or fear, choosing faith over fear can lead to life-changing experiences.As a teen, it can feel like everyone is watching your moves, judging your choices, or pressuring you to fit in. But God calls you to walk wisely, make decisions that honor Him, and trust Him even when you’re unsure. Sometimes the right choice doesn’t feel popular or easy—it might even feel scary—but God’s guidance always leads to blessing and peace.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Simple vs. Wise Choices: Look at your daily decisions. Are there areas where you’ve been “simple” instead of “prudent”? How can choosing wisdom change your life?2. Facing Fear with Faith: The women at the tomb were afraid, yet they witnessed God’s power. How can you choose faith over fear in situations that seem overwhelming?3. Influence Matters: Proverbs says the wicked bow before the good. Who are the positive influences in your life, and how can you learn from them to make better choices?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEYour choices matter—choose wisdom, trust God, and let faith guide you even when fear wants to take over.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for showing me the difference between simple choices and wise ones. Help me to walk in Your wisdom, trust You when I’m afraid, and make decisions that honor You. Strengthen my faith so that fear does not hold me back from experiencing Your power and blessings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.