This is the way…

How often do we rush ahead of God and want to know where He is leading us – now – instead of waiting on His timing? I know I am guilty of it. Most recently, as I was acquiring my degree, I thought I needed to know who, what, when, where, why, and how He would use it and me when I graduated. After many fretful praying sessions, I realized that my life was much calmer when I relaxed, reminded myself to breathe, and let God come to me in His timing – one day at a time. If I saw the bigger picture, I would be even more overwhelmed than I was when I looked at the whiteboard of assignments on my wall at the beginning of each semester. In God’s timing, the board is now wiped clean. By the grace of God, I made it through.

In the Old Testament, we read how King Saul stepped out ahead of God when things weren’t moving as fast as he thought they should. He tended to be driven by circumstances, relying on religious rituals to gain God’s favor instead of waiting for God’s appointed time (I Sam. 13:8-15, English Standard Version). Does that sound familiar?

Isaiah 13:1-17 records how God’s people forsake Him for false salvation. Still, God promises ultimate abundance, purified of idols, in the next section (I Sam. 18-26, English Standard Version). The word “therefore” in this story stands out in verse eighteen and hinges between these two facts. In other words, because they forsaken Him, His grace was necessary. The verse continues – “The Lord waits to be gracious to you” (Is. 30:18, emphasis added). The ESV Study Bible notes that this is the “amazing logic of grace” – God is the only One who knows the perfect way, time, and process to achieve His purpose.

Many times, like Saul, I haven’t waited and tried to seek God’s favor on my own. But I have found more peace when I let God be God and His Holy Spirit lead me. Isaiah says, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left” (Is. 30:21, emphasis added). This is the internal guidance of the Holy Spirit, also noted in Rom. 8:14 and Gal. 5:16, 18, and 25. Don’t let external entanglements (idols) replace wholehearted loyalty to God (Is. 30:22). Instead, pray for God to help you “Keep in step with the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16).

In our obedience – God is always faithful. In our faithfulness – God always provides. When we are impatient – God’s grace covers us with gentle kindness and whispers – this is the way; walk in it. Are you listening?

“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Ps. 27:14, Emphasis added)

“Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10, Emphasis added).