Growing up with sisters had many advantages. Kay, Ann, and I shared rooms, secrets, advice, and clothes. Besides going through other’s closets, we even invaded my mom’s closet and wore her things, too. But we most often wore each other’s shoes. The fact that we didn’t wear the same size never bothered us. Then my Dad discovered we had been swapping shoes.

“You’re going to ruin your feet,” he said.  “Other shoes don’t fit right, and you won’t be able to walk.”

“We’re saving you money. You won’t have to buy as many pairs if we just share.”

“I don’t care how many pairs you buy,” he said. “Just wear your own shoes.”

I wish I could say we stopped sharing shoes after that, but it continued well into adulthood. But I must admit, it feels strange to wear someone else’s shoes.

The same is true when we imitate others and attempt to walk in their steps. Have you ever thought that life would be better if you just had your neighbor’s job, your co-worker’s family, or your friend’s talent? I think that if we were somehow allowed a minute of someone else’s life it would be as awkward as walking in their shoes. We’d probably wobble like a little girl in high heels, or trip like a little boy in his Dad’s boots.

Psalm 37:23 reminds us, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.” This gives me peace about my future and encourages me to walk in the steps that my Father has laid out for me. My God-ordained steps fit and let me walk confidently and securely.

May contentment, grace, and joy abound as we walk in God’s will for our lives.

Ronny Michel can be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.