By Rae Lynn DeAngelis
In the game Marco-Polo, the seeker is at a definite disadvantage because he cannot see where he is going. Blindfolded, his only sense of direction comes from carefully listening to the voices of those around him.
In our faith journey with God, we may not know the way to go, but we can call out to the Lord and listen for His voice and direction.
“Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.” (Psalm 65:24)
I was going through something very difficult and needed some clear and specific direction from God. A friend that I cared about was about to engage in something that was ethically and morally wrong. Since I was unsure of the manner in which I should approach the situation, I did the only thing I knew to do. I cried out to God in prayer. Thankfully, He heard my plea for help and wasted no time in directing me through His Word.
“Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.” (Psalm 43:3)
Sometimes God whispers His directions and sometimes He shouts them. This time God shouted His direction –His voice was unmistakable. I love how God is faithful and eager to reveal Himself to us.
In this particular case, God was asking me to take a tough stand and speak truth to my friend about the situation. I have to tell you… I really didn’t want to say anything because I knew there was a very real risk that I would lose the friendship altogether.
God doesn’t promise a challenge free life, but He does promise to be by our side each time we step out and face life’s challenges—especially when we are obedient to what He has called us to do.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1)
I took the tough stand with my friend, and although our friendship suffered for a time, in the end, God redeemed the relationship and taught us both valuable lessons through the experience.
God brings peace when we seek His guidance and trust His higher ways.
