Directionally Challenged

Click here: Proverbs 3:5-6

REFLECTION

by Mary Alice McGinnis

I am directionally challenged. I get lost going to the same place I have been going to for years. Going inside a building, and then coming back out, I will forget which way to turn to find my car. Being an avid bicyclist, this problem presented some very real challenges for me. I never felt confident that once I started my ride, I would find my destination or find my way back.

My life changed forever with the introduction of GPS. I can now confidently set a course, follow the prompts, and reach my destination.

Isn’t this just like life? For me, I often question, “Am I headed in the right direction? Am I going off course? Is there some detour or peril ahead that I should avoid? If I lose my way, will I find my way back?”

Recently I was talking to a friend about a decision I was about to make. In the heat of the moment, I was stirred up, ready to go into action. He asked me, “What does it say in Proverbs 3?”

I replied, “Uhm, lean not on my own understanding?”

Sometimes, the direction is plain, if we just take a step back to see it.  

God knows all and sees all. He created fluffy clouds, serene sunsets, intricate flowers, and even the tiniest birds. Why would we want to lean on our own understanding, when He is so much bigger!!  We need to depend upon His divine perspective.

“Yes,” my friend said, “But what comes before that?”

My friend prompted me to remember: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” Trust must come FIRST! We will never confidently follow someone we don’t trust.

How do we know we can trust God? He has shown us His faithfulness throughout time. He keeps coming back for us, His lost sheep, when we stray. He is the Good Shepherd who willingly laid down His life for us.

When we know the all-powerful God loves us and is for us, we can surrender to His leading and allow Him to make our path’s straight.

Prayer – Lord, I am so spiritually directionally challenged. I am so prone to get off course. When You try to lead me, sometimes I resist You. Sometimes I ignore you. Even when I ask for your guidance, I do not take time to listen and watch for Your leading. Thank You for your grace, for relentlessly pursuing me. Help me to trust You more each day, and confidently surrender to Your leading in my life.