Charted

What is Charted?

Like a master surveyor, Jesus gives us clear directions to find a fulfilling, purpose-filled relationship with Himself - a map to the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Charted is a daily devotional written by the junior class at Fountainview Academy (Class of 2019). Based on the book Steps to Christ, this book explores the path to the Originator and Provider of Genuine Joy. We don't have to be confused about the way. The certainty is in the journey: divinely Charted.

Happiness that is sought from selfish motives, outside of the path of
duty, is ill-balanced, fitful, and transitory; it passes away, and the soul
is filled with loneliness and sorrow; but there is joy and satisfaction in
the service of God; the Christian is not left to walk in uncertain paths;
he is not left to vain regrets and disappointments. – Steps to Christ, pg.
Appetite clawed the insides of my stomach. I calmed my
hand shaking with passion to abstain from the fluffy pancakes lying
irresistibly on my plate. After acquiring a fork worthy to vanquish my
feast, I heard a friend’s bowl filled with apple deliciousness tumble to
the ground. Glancing at my watching friends, I quickly stooped with a
napkin to clean the mess. Bathing in the admiring glances I had won,
I reveled in my astounding self-righteousness. My audience had seen
my actions, but not my motives. What I had done was right, but empty.
Every morning I wake up, adjust my hair, put on a nice shirt,
and conduct hollow devotions, fabricating a cloak behind which I
can hide. I continue to weave my lie throughout the day, lacing my
brilliantly colored actions where they will be seen the most, using my
reputation to meticulously conceal my vile motives out of sight.
Can I be something more than an actor?
Society sees my brilliant veil, but they know that something
is hidden beneath the surface—they know that I am a fraud. I want to
be a Christian even when no one is around. Yet I realize that without
Christ, I cannot have a pure heart. As I construct my life around Jesus,
even in a fake world, I can be legit.