Pastor's Pondering, June 22, 2023

Let Us Follow God Rather Than Ourselves

 

Recently we were driving to Detroit and our GPS system suddenly announced that we were to immediately get off at the next exit.  Naturally I decided I knew more than the GPS system, so I continued driving on the highway.  As soon as we had gone past that exit, I realized that there was a huge traffic back up.  Obviously, the system knew more than I had known but then it directed me to get off at the next exit.  Humbled, I followed its leadings and only was a few minutes late to my destination.

 

How many times when we hear the leading of the Lord through circumstances, people, or an inner feeling have we decided that we know best and decided to follow our own understanding?  The  Bible clearly tells us not to follow our own way (Proverbs 3:6) but He will command His angels to guard you in our ways (Psalm 91:11 ).  There is a way that seems right, but it ends in separation from God (Proverbs 14:12).  He wants to be our director, guide, comforter, and keeper.  He really knows the paths of our lives and wants us to end up well (Jeremiah 29:11).  

 

God really cares for us and wants us to only go through those things that will help us.  Minister Herb Willis, a preacher in our church, recently brought an excellent message about the storms in life that God will send to perfect, protect, and correct us for our victory. Today let us resolve to trust Him with all our hearts and allow Him to take care of our life’s direction.

 

Proverbs 3:5-6

New International Version

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight

 

Psalm 91:11

New International Version

11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;

 

Proverbs 14:12

New International Version

12 There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.

 

Jeremiah 29:11

New International Version

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.