Our Promised Guide

“For a long time I have kept silent, I have been quiet and held myself back. But now, like a woman in childbirth, I cry out, I gasp and pant. I will lay waste the mountains and hills and dry up all their vegetation; I will turn rivers into islands and dry up the pools. I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.” - Isaiah 42:14-16 NIV

Our God is not a silent, passive god. He is not okay with standing by and seeing us make mistakes. He is not okay watching us ruin parts of our life that could be prevented. He is not okay with seeing us hurt ourselves and others. He does not function in a way that allows those things. But He also isn’t aggressive. And He’s not pressuring. But He is the ultimate guide.
 
When I think about the Lord as a “guide” my mind is (I hate to admit it) quickly brought back to cliche vacation bible school and church camp slogans about God being our guide on our journey. It would inevitably be paired with some kind of treasure map and compass. So silly I know but genuinely so true.

Our life is made up of choices, obstacles, and so many times where we have to decide what is going to be the best for us, for the people around us, or for our life in general. Here’s the good thing, we don’t have to do it alone. God is willing to guide us in the right direction if we ask. He won’t force us to ask for help but He will offer it. He offers guidance in the most gentle, loving, and graceful way. He reminds us that He bring light to our darkness in order for us to make wise decisions. He reminds us to consider His thoughts before making choices. And He does this with so much compassion and tenderness.
 
My prayer for us today is that we ask for guidance in every aspect of our lives. Whether it’s what job to take, what major to pursue, whether or not to continue a friendship, or any other choice we may have to make. I pray we consider the perspective and guidance that comes from the Lord. He’s already promised it to us, it’s our choice to receive it.

Author | Morgan Attebery