Daily Proof

Sometimes, when God gives me direction, I know it's Him; both message and messenger are crystal clear. Sometimes, I even obey without a moment's hesitation. :)

At other times, I think it's His voice. Or, sometimes, I feel fairly sure it's His voice, but I'm not entirely clear on what exactly He's saying. I know I'm not alone in these communication challenges. I say "challenges", because, for me, it's challenging! I've joked before that if God would just send me an email, I'd be more than happy to do everything He asks! Email is clear, legible and often concisely written (unless it's an email from me, in which case all bets are off; brevity is not my strong suit!). But, for whatever reason (I'm sure we can each guess at a couple), that's not how He usually operates.

I've been thinking about this delayed gratification today; there are plenty of good reasons for it. And it's not my job tonight to be guessing at the reasoning of God. But here is what I do know: I also have plenty of reason to trust that the confirmation, the affirmation and the clarity I crave are coming. God may not always send bulleted list via email, but He is not lacking in communication skills - or methods! It's been my experience that when I move forward prayerfully and with a surrendered heart, I always get the information I need. When certain roadblocks come up, the Spirit whispers inside me, "press on." Yet, other diversions sometimes produce sometime more like, "When you're in His will, things aren't this hard." I can't explain it, and I certainly can't articulate it. And, love Him as He is, we all know there are no rules we can use to box Him in.

The point is just this: when I doubt, or feel unclear in my pursuits, I can just trust in His faithfulness. The verse that inspired these thoughts today is Exodus 3:12 which reads, "And God said, 'I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain'" (NIV).

At the insightful & Spirit-led suggestion of a friend, I've been pondering this verse. Moses was given direction, and even a promise for confirmation - but his confirmation wasn't to come until after he'd led them out of Israel! I think about the tough roads I've walked, and all the challenging moments I've lived through - most of which were not accompanied by an explicit promise from God that the end of that situation would bring proof of His companionship through my journey. That said, as I look back on those times and experiences, I am absolutely convinced He was next to me in my inmost; about that, there are no doubts.

Lord, in your abundant wisdom and grace, You teach me to trust even in times where another task seems to be the thing at hand. Help me to learn Your lessons always, and Lord, thank You for never leaving my side. When I am unsure of my footsteps, help me to see Your hand in guidance, and to walk forth in boldness. I can do all things through Christ! Amen.