When unsure of your path, it’s important to look for the signs. The other day we ventured out for fresh air, exercise and a walk on a nature path. We had never been here, didn’t have a map, and honestly, this lack of preparation was a bit outside my comfort zone! But stretching ourselves seems to the theme of this time, so off we began.
We took turns leading the way and as I led, the path narrowed into the trees and became more difficult to follow. I kept my gaze down most of the time due to uneven ground. But as I looked up for the path, I saw it. A small, square sign nailed into the tree. Then it was very clear: every hundred feet or so a little sign marked the trail. As we walked, I could only see one at time. But that’s all that was needed; a sign appeared just when I wondered which way to turn.
God works the same way when we simply look up and see His signs for us.
In His Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6 while discussing worry, Jesus reminded of us of this:
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. ~Matthew 6:33 NLT
In our moments of wondering, worrying, or looking for what’s next, God provides all we need. What we need can be as simple as following a wooded path by seeing small trail signs. Or it’s as complex as navigating new normal in a pandemic. Simple as helping an elderly neighbor or more complicated as finding words for a scared child as a nervous parent. Simple as going to the grocery store, doctor, or getting takeout. Complex as doing these things while worrying if we could pick up or spread a life-threatening virus.
What we need varies from moment to moment and day to day. But God knows exactly what we need and when we need it. Our job is not worrying about what we have or don’t have in a crisis. It’s not to live in fear over things of this world. Our role, our job is to keep looking to Him for all we need. We are called to live in faith, trusting God for all our needs. Yes, we need to diligently do what we CAN do, while always remembering Who is in control and provides precisely what we need, when we need it.
Paul’s recount of his ‘thorn of the flesh’ also reminds us of how God’s grace supplies what we need, especially when weak.
Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. ~1 Corinthians 12:8-10
Our strength comes from God and in our weakest moments we are strong in His grace.
Look up and look for God’s signs in your life. How is He providing what you need today? If you’re having a hard time seeing the forest for the tress as they say, simply ask. Pray and ask God for what you need today. Then look up, find what you need, and help someone else by leading the way.
Happy to link with #HeartEncouragement
I appreciate your messages and encouragement, they are uplifting along with the many other resources out there. I have friends who tell me they are bored and I understand that and am thankful God has blessed me with a faith and trust in him that I have. I have learned to appreciate so much more the technology we have today. Receiving your messages, attending church on line is a real WOW for me and the CBS bible study I am a part of is continuing on line now. The daily short devotions I receive from LWML and other resources I have. On nice days I get a walk or two in. I have several projects that I hope to get done that I have been needed to do for a long time. I am often reminded of Paul’s message of being content in all circumstances often. These days make it extremely challenging but with God on my side I need to remember he will be there for me what the challenge seems to be too much . God’s blessing on your day and whatever challenges you will face this day.
Thanks Lenore for your encouragement to me too! Yes, it’s a trying time for us all and know that I’m working on some additional resources for all of us to stay focused and engaged mentally and spiritually-coming soon! Blessings to you and stay well!