God Speaking

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” (Isaiah 30:21)

A group of women with whom I was having coffee, were discussing as women often do, those odd quirky behaviours of our husbands that endear them to us, but can also drive us crazy. One lady was bemoaning the fact that her husband would never ask for directions even if they were lost in a strange neighbourhood and were already late for an appointment. (My younger readers will gasp and say G.P.S needed) Another chimed in to say that her husband never read instructions before beginning to assemble a newly bought piece of equipment. Yet another told us of the reckless way her husband would buy some exotic tool before checking to see if it was designed for the job in hand. Of course it is not only husbands who blindly plunge into all sorts of situations without seeking advice or asking for directions and perhaps it is often very evident in our own walk with Christ.

When serious decisions are confronting us it is very easy to take the route of the husbands in my story. Firstly some of us believe that it is up to us to solve the problem and to seek advice may be seen as a form of weakness. Secondly some of us forget that solutions to every problem known to man can be found in the most comprehensive book of instructions ever written, “The Holy Bible” but it does need to be opened and read! Thirdly some of us believe that decision making can be helped by trying the many aids the world offers from self-awareness groups to positive thinking, but just like the third husband in my story, many exotic “tools” fail miserably to help.

David knew that some of the world’s choices in dealing with our decisions can even lead to sin so seeking advice in God’s word is a good place to start.

“Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.” (Psalm 119:133)

God had to constantly tell the children of Israel that he is always the best source to turn to when we need guidance and Isaiah passes on this ancient wisdom; seek advice from the Lord God Almighty.

“This is what the Lord say – your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.”” (Isaiah 48:17)

The book of Proverbs also gives wonderful advice when we are facing any sort of stressful decision making in our own personal lives. As well as seeking the Lord though prayer and reading his word, we read in Proverbs the wonderful help wise Christians can provide in helping sorting through options.

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.” (Proverbs 19:20)

Often when we have finally made an important decision after prayer and much thinking it is also wise to test the decision before following through with it, with others you trust.

“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.” (Proverbs 11:14)

Seeking advice is certainly not a sign of weakness. Seeking God’s advice is a wonderful way to start. Testing what you hear from God with very committed believers, is a good way to solidify any resolve and singing this song to your soul will certainly keep you on track;

Trust in the Lord with all your heart

And lean not on your own understanding

In all your ways acknowledge him,

And he will direct your paths.