God’s Direction
"Because of your great compassion you did not abandon them in the wilderness. By day the pillar of cloud did not fail to guide them on their path, nor the pillar of fire by night to shine on the way they were to take."1
After God's will and purpose, our life is the result of our own decisions. Whether they are small or large decisions, they all have consequences and in every situation we face there is a decision to make that will affect us, our loved ones and those around us. It has been said that we define our decisions, but our decisions define us.
That's why decision-making requires energy that exhausts us and can lead to an overwhelming state of anxiety. So what do we do now? Let us make a firm decision to follow Jesus and allow ourselves to be led by him, for he is not only a Lord who governs us, but a shepherd who also guides us. He will not merely feed us daily, but will guide us according to His perfect will. It will do more than correct our actions; It will direct our steps.
Today's passage reminds us how God led the Israelites through the wilderness, and the Lord reminds us that His Holy Spirit wants to lead us on paths of righteousness and keep us from going astray even when we don't know what road lies ahead.
We may be tempted to look to horoscopes, self-help gurus, or the stars for guidance, but if we follow this, we won't be able to listen to Jesus. Those who are children of God are guided by Him alone, and they choose to follow Him and allow His living Word to guide them. If we decide to stop following society and begin to truly listen to the Holy Spirit, we will have discernment to see clearly, walk with certainty, and intentionally impart the presence of Christ.
God's word has the answers to all questions. In it you will find consolation for your pain. Not only is it a guide, but it’s also extremely practical. Therefore, open His Word and God will open His mouth. Diligently seek His will, and He will reveal His ways to you. He communicated with the Israelites in the past, and He will do the same with you and me in the present and in the future
Meditate today: How often do you open God's Word and allow it to speak to you?
Suggested Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, let every decision, whether big or small, not be guided by my impulses or desires but by your perfect will. Fill me with your wisdom and discernment to understand the path I must follow, and place in my heart a genuine longing for your word, for in it I find all the answers I need. Give me the courage to proclaim your truth to all those around me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
1. Nehemiah 9:19 (NIV).
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.