Today I found myself walking behind a tiny woman on a sidewalk. She was not even half my size. She walked slowly and I was getting closer and closer. I did not want to alarm her, but—she was really slow. She had her dog there for “protection,” a poodle that would fit in her purse. I spoke as I came alongside her:
“I promise I’m not following you.”
She turned with a look of shock. I thought she must have heard my steps, even seen my shadow. But when I spoke, it startled her—and seemed to offend her. I passed her and hurried on.
Not all voices from behind are scary. Children learning to ride a bike expect to hear their parents running along behind them, shouting instructions. The same is true with coaches on the field. And God is our parent and coach encouraging us from behind—if only we would listen.
“The Lord is waiting to show you MERCY, and is rising up to show you COMPASSION…. He will show favor to you at the sound of your cry. When He hears, He will answer you…. Your Teacher will not hide Himself any longer. Your eyes will see your Teacher, and whenever you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘THIS IS THE WAY. WALK IN IT’” Isaiah 30:18-21.
Do you need a word from the Lord? Do you need to know God’s will or God’s direction? Seek Him in prayer. And bring these promises to Him—talk to Him about these words. Remind Him that He is waiting to show mercy and compassion, that He promises an answer, and that your ears desperately need to hear His voice.
God, SHOW US THE WAY!! TEACH US TO WALK IN IT. We need to know Your will!
ΑΩ
Household Words: 