Interstate highways in the United States are well marked. If you follow the big green signs, you can go to most any destination … without a GPS.
If you ignore the signs, however, disaster strikes. You could pass an exit or even miss details of an unexpected detour. You will likely still arrive at your destination… but the route would be a circuitous and lengthy journey.
Spiritual Road Signs
Observing road signs is like recognizing God’s promptings. When we follow His guidance, the route is so much smoother. Often, though, we choose to ignore the signs.
We believe that we know the road better and choose our own directions. We then face a meandering route…often more painful and time-consuming. We can lose sight of our destination as we frantically seek the signs to get back on the right road.
Recognizing the Signs
Some road signs are bright orange. They boldly signal hazardous road conditions. Road crews place them to warn us to slow down, change lanes, or even to stop.
Roads signs exist in our spiritual life as well. Sometimes they are road-sign orange but most time they are more subtle. The Lord places them to prepare us for upcoming changes. They come when the Lord stirs our spirit. They show up in the words of friends and family. They emerge from the words of Scripture.
Just as I must be an attentive driver, I must be an attentive disciple. Just as I need to be obedient to the road signs, I need to be obedient to the Lord’s promptings….
The Lord truly does know the plans for us. Remarkably, when we go our own way, we do end up at the very place where the Lord intended in the first place. Quite Jonah like, actually.
Your Turn
To be in touch with God and His plans, spend time today being ever mindful of your surroundings.
What is the Lord conveying through your morning devotional?
Could He be speaking through a neighbor or co-worker?
Is your soul restless when you ponder an upcoming situation?
Please share how the Lord is working in your life! We learn so much from each other.
Posted by Sharon R. Hoover
Photo Credit: kingeroos via photopin cc
“Prepare to Stop” Photo Credit: cobalt123 via photopin cc