Isaiah 30:21
Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”
We make countless decisions every day. Most of our choices are routine, and the outcomes are predictable – we don’t have to pray and ponder and meditate to decide whether we should go to work or not! There is even a move afoot to encourage people to wear the same type of clothes each day (a uniform), eat the same foods for breakfast and lunch, and develop habits that take decision-making out of your brain and put it on automatic.
I like many of the ideas presented in James Clear’s book, “Atomic Habits.” Developing habits that we complete without thought adds up to gaining time and mental space for other tasks we must do each day. “The aggregation of marginal gains” (as used by Team SKY in professional cycling) is a concept with real merit. I have been working on some easy habits, like setting out everything I need for my coffee, tea, and oatmeal in the evening, so that I can start my day in auto mode – not having to think- and then more quickly get to the things I need to work on.
But there are other decisions that are not so run-of-the-mill – These decisions take study, counsel, prayer, and a mustard seed of faith. So many times, there is no clear path forward and no established precedent. We can be baffled and even paralyzed – in limbo – because we want to make the best decision and not make mistakes.
What can we do in times like these? First, truly believe that God will show you His best way. Believe what scripture says: “Your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way,walk in it’ ”. Having confidence that God will speak and trusting Him is so important.
It is completely necessary that you are committed to do what you hear God say – obedience, obedience, obedience. This has been pivotal on countless occasions: the more willing I am to follow the Lord’s promptings, the more clearly I hear His voice.
Also, I have found that fasting is invaluable when I am facing a major hurdle – I can’t live without it! Fasting changes me in ways that I could not conjure up myself.
Of course, regular worship with other Christian people (God speaks to me in worship almost always), a lifestyle of Bible study, and specific dedicated prayer time for a big decision will move you along the path – even though you can’t see around the bend.
Finally, please ask someone else to pray with you about the decision you are making. It is very powerful to join together and to hear someone praying for you because it will actually boost your faith and trust in our Almighty God.
Please let me know if you would like me to pray with you about a decision you are making. I would count it an honor.
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