I had braces applied about 15 years ago to correct the misalignment of my teeth and jaw and have had the same retainers since then. But earlier this year, my retainers finally broke down, and I needed replacements.

Because of COVID, my orthodontist’s office wasn’t opened, and that was problematic. Without my retainers, my teeth would shift, so I knew I had to move fast and improvise. I researched and chose an online company that sent me a kit to take my own teeth impressions.

After I completed that step, I nervously sent the molds back, feeling unsure about whether or not I had actually done it the right way. But when a brand new pair of retainers arrived in the mail and fit my teeth, I knew my worry was unfounded. Not only did the retainers work out perfectly, but the new pair is higher quality than the old retainers and cost me far less. Although the breakdown of my old retainers was a major inconvenience at first, I’m glad it happened. I was opened up to a new process, and I discovered an alternate and more effective way of doing something I didn’t even know I could do before!

Naturally speaking, new discoveries and modernized approaches are exciting. Spiritually, on the other hand, there are some things that must never change; they have been and will forever remain effective. More specifically, the word of God and its effectiveness never changes, and remaining committed to the word is a must.

In Jeremiah 6, unfortunately, Judah abandoned the foundations of their faith. In Jeremiah 6:16 NIV, God said, “Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls. But you reply, ‘No, that’s not the road we want!’”

The Jewish nation rejected God and the principles that would have led them to blessings, favor and abundance had they followed them. But no, they wanted to go their own way and do their own thing, and so they got out of alignment and were met with destruction.

As you go through life, especially in these modern days, you will see many people abandoning the foundational principles of Scripture and doing things their own way. The end of that is always destruction (Proverbs 14:12).

As for you and me, let’s remain faithful to Christ, seek out the godly way, and stay on the straight and narrow path that leads to life. The road to abundant blessings is the path of obedience to God’s will. He rewards the faithful, so stay faithful, and you’ll stay blessed. Remain connected to Jesus Christ, the vine, and you’ll produce much righteous fruit and reap a plentiful harvest.

John 15:5 NIV says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Again, stay with God. Focus on His principles. Meditate on His word. Choose the right path. As God’s word says, apart from Him you can do nothing, but with Him, all things are possible.

Now, let’s pray.

God, thank You for reminding me that if I walk in obedience to Your will despite what the world is doing, You will bless me, favor me, increase me, and make me fruitful. I am totally committed to my faith in You and will serve You forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Get more inspiration from Dianna Hobbs weekdays, Monday through Friday, right here on Your Daily Cup of Inspiration. Be sure to catch up on encouragement that you missed, and if you need prayer, don’t hesitate to ask for it here. The ministry team is standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, to intercede. Until next time, stay encouraged.