There is a question that we all ask at one time or another, “How do I know I’m heading in the right direction?”
This question could be in reference to many things that involve a risk or change of some sort. Every time we begin something new or venture out we have the same question, “Am I heading in the right direction, and how will I know?”
“How will I know?” The fact is we won’t know 100%. We don’t know for sure everything we embark upon is going to work out exactly as planned.. There will always be some questions, anxiety and lingering doubts and fears, but courage is not an absence of these feelings; courage is acting even when we do have these fears.
The “How do I know I’m heading in the right direction” question is in fact a perfect opportunity for our faith and trust in God goodness and for us to grow. The unfortunate alternative is to continually vacillate over which direction to take so that in the end we do nothing, experience little, go nowhere, and miss out.
A reporter once asked Mother Teresa what it was like to have absolute and total clarity in life, to which she responded:
“I have never had clarity. What I have always had is trust.”
When we don’t know or are unsure of which direction to take we are forced to look beyond ourselves. To look to God for wisdom and clarity and to allow others that He draws around us to help and speak into our lives. As we launch out in a particular direction we then access courage, skills and abilities we didn’t realise we had.
Today don’t just sit there. If you don’t know what to do and which direction to take seek God and then gently step out and do something.
As you begin to move in a particular direction keep asking questions, keep praying, keep listening and being willing to adjust and shift direction where needed. Look for the open doors and opportunities and the “red flashing warning lights” to not go there. Pay attention to the answers that present themselves along the way and keep trusting God to lead you step by step. Then sooner or later you’ll realise you’ve figured it out and will reach your destination.
But remember there is only one thing that gets us heading in a direction at all and that’s taking that first step, while we trust God to lead.
“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” (Proverbs 16:29)
“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”. (Isaiah 30:21)
“In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight”. (Proverbs 3:6)
Prayer: Lord please help me to trust you to set me in the right direction. I trust you to guide me today and to take care of me as you guide my steps. In Jesus name Amen