Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- February 16, 2009
“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea. The Israelites went up out of Egypt ready for battle.” Exodus 13:17-18
The Lord’s path for His people is not always a straight line from point A to point B. In His wisdom He may allow us to go through the wilderness, before we arrive at the promise land. He knows preparation precedes the blessing of the destination. He desires that we learn to trust in Him—along the way to where He wants us to go.
It’s when the Lord’s will is a non-linear route that we begin to doubt and wonder why He has led us through a desert experience. However, if life were that easy we could easily take credit for our successes and begin to grow demanding and proud, instead of grateful and humble. Thank the Lord that He has you in a process that requires intense prayer and faith. He knows what’s best to grow your faith, so that you are able to handle His blessings.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Do you find yourself in a wilderness, unsure of your next steps? Are you overcome with doubt and uncertainty? If so, do the next right thing and trust God with the future. Remind yourself of His history of faithfulness to lead you into the very best plan. The timing may not be to your liking, but you can trust the Lord that His timetable is for your best.
If it’s a job transition—let go and let God be in charge—because He is your pilot to navigate your next steps. If it’s relational upheaval—figure God in—and He will figure it out. If you still wallow in anger from past hurt—get over it by God’s grace and forgiveness—and get on with your life. Above all, follow, by faith, your heavenly Father’s gentle leading. Remain in the palm of His protective hand, as you traverse up and down His trusted pathway.
“Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long” (Psalm 25:4-5).
Lastly, make the Bible your roadmap for righteous living. It is in His holy writ that the Lord lays out clear boundaries as you travel through life. The route of His will involves exit ramps to rest, driving at night with limited vision and occasional car wrecks. But throughout your travels in this life keep an eye on eternity’s prize in the person of Jesus Christ. Keep your faith in Jesus for He will never let you down. Get directions from Him.
“Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations” (Revelation 15:3b).
How can I better let go and let God lead me along His best path for my life?
Related Readings: Proverbs 12:28; Isaiah 55:8-9; 64:5; Jeremiah 32:19; Hebrews 3:8
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Additional Resource: Learn from Russ Crosson’s video blog, “Raising godly sons”, click here… http://bit.ly/ik4tjV
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Boyd,
You have an incredible gift of developing a biblical response to so many of life’s themes. And, your journal always carries some new way to consider these themes and respond to life and to God.
Sometimes surprising; sometimes difficult; always good.
Thank you.
Jerry
Oh but to know those clear boundaries in all decisions…how simpler it would be but alas, the Lord did not promise it would be easy…but He did promise He would be there with us through all things. Thank you for this word…excellent reminders!
Thanks Jerry, I am on the journey with you. Thanks for your encouragement as we travel with Jesus!
In Christ,
Boyd
you guys are great!! Thank you for the writings you send out, They are a true blessing and giude for wisdom. May GOD continue to bless your ministry and keep his hand on you.
love in JESUS ….. Randy