Navigate Uncertainty

We have all either been through, or will be through uncertain times in our lives;  times where the direction of our lives will be completely rerouted - either by a choice we make, or a choice made for us.  These times can be very unsettling, especially for those of us who like to have all of the answers neatly laid out before us.  It is in these times that the Lord draws us closer to Him and teaches us to rely on and trust in Him.

I have found in my own life that He gently increases the challenge each time.  As you lean on Him and trust in Him for guidance for the smaller issues of your life, you may find that it requires a little more faith and patience for the next decision - almost like Spiritual exercise!  But your Creator - the one who has plans to prosper and not harm you - is building up a portfolio of evidence to prove to you (and others) that you can trust Him in all circumstances.  Do not let uncertainty hold you back from the plans God has for you.  Take the initiative to find your answer.

Guidance During Times of Uncertainty:

1. Remember and Trust His promises: "When they [those who love me] call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble.  I will rescue and honor them." (Psalm 91:15);  "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28).  It may help to journal all He does for you, so that you can remember those instances in the future.  He is your Father, and He loves you.  He will be with you, and will help you.  Trust Him.
2. Pray and Ask for the answers: Proverbs 2:3 tells us to first "call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding"; Jeremiah 6:16 tells us to "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls."  Prayer is our communication line to Him.  He already knows what we want and need, but He wants us to talk with Him and ask for His help.
3. Read and Seek God's Direction: God has already answered many of your specific questions in His Word. "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." (Psalm 119:105); "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness," (2 Timothy 3:16).  First, dig for your answers in His Word.  It is easier than ever these days to find relevant scriptures, thanks to Google!  The Word of God is His voice.  Get to know it!
4. Wait and Listen for guidance:  Now this is the hardest part!  You have taken the time to remember God's promises, you have asked for His help, you have researched the Bible for any direction there... and now... you must wait!  Trust that God has an answer, and that He will provide direction in His timing.  The reason for waiting is made clear in Proverbs 16:9, "In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."  He has already figured out your course and mapped it out for you.  If you forge ahead without the map, you risk going off course and making the journey much longer. It is so hard to wait when we are uncertain and just want to make a move, but He will reward your faith and patience.

The pastor of my church reminded me this past weekend that answers don't always come in the printed Word.  Your answer may come through the Holy Spirit with a peace in your heart, or through circumstances that God Himself has arranged.  If you believe and trust that your answer will come, you will be looking for that answer and won't miss it when it arrives.  Uncertain times can be exciting times.  It is in these times that God can bring you closer to His purpose for your life, if you let Him.