Pastor's Ponderings, August 13, 2018

Our God Guides Us Through Life

Mark Manson, in October 30, 2013, wrote an article entitled “9 Subtle Lies We All Tell Ourselves.”  One of his concluding comments was, “Our lives are defined by nothing but glorified best guesses, a constant process of trial-and-error.”  While it is true that life can be confusing, disappointing, and stressful, it would be sad to believe that we are all simply meandering around while conjecturing which path to take next in life.

Those who love the Lord are not limited to best guesses.  The Bible says God guides our steps (Psalm 37:23).  He promises that He will be a Good Shepherd for us and will lead us into productive ventures (Psalm 23:1-3).  We do not have to be afraid of what is around the next corner in life because God is with us (Psalm 23:4).  The scripture says that mankind is God’s work and we are a work in progress that He will complete (Psalm 138:8).  He wants to do mighty works for us during our lifetimes (2 Chronicles 16:9 (a)).

We are not just a lucky guess away from disaster because He will give us directions as we make our turns in life (Isaiah 30:21).  He is a tried and true friend.  Even when we find ourselves in trouble, God is a very present help.  Let us rest in the knowledge that even when we may worry, our God knows our end from our beginning and always shows us which path we should take. 

Psalm 37:23
New International Version (NIV)

23 The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him

Psalm 23:1-3New International Version (NIV)

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

2  He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,

3  he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.

Psalm 23:4
New International Version (NIV)

4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 138:8
Amplified Bible (AMP)

8 The Lord will accomplish that which concerns me;

Your [unwavering] lovingkindness, O Lord, endures forever—

Do not abandon the works of Your own hands.

2 Chronicles 16:9 (a)
New International Version (NIV)

9 For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him

Isaiah 30:21
New International Version (NIV)

21 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.”