Read 

Proverbs 16:25, "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death." 

Think 

Have you ever been completely confident about something you saw or heard, only to find out later that you were totally wrong? It happens to all of us, especially when we are blinded by pride.   

In this verse, what is the “way that seems right” to you and me but ends up going dreadfully wrong? It is the way of our ego. It's shaking our fists at God and saying, "It's my life, and I will do as I please!" When we edge God out of our lives and live as if we know best, we will end up taking an unintended detour! 

Most of us don't like rules, especially rules that God sets. We think we know best and can ignore the boundaries He has put in place. But, whether we want to admit it or not, our repeated failures prove that we are not invincible.  

God is not a killjoy, and His rules are for our protection and purpose. Think of the word "RULES" in this fashion: Restrictions that Underscore Love and Enjoyment Strategically. God wants the best for our lives, but we must trust that His way, not our way, is the best. There is a right way, God's way, and that way always leads to successful living! 

Act 

Recall a rule that God has established that you chose to ignore. Remember the fallout from that wrong choice. Resolve from this moment forward to choose to do life God's way. 

Pray 

Heavenly Father, as I remember that moment when I failed to follow Your way, I thank You for Your forgiveness. I choose Your way, Your rules for living life. In Jesus' name, Amen.