Reining in the Impulsiveness

With all my heart I have sought You; do not let me wander from Your commandments. Psalm 119:10 (New American Standard Bible)

He who has compassion on them will guide them and lead them beside springs of water. Isaiah 49:10 (New International Version)

If I am not discerning, it is often easy to mistaken impulsiveness for God‘s nudging. There have been numerous times in my life when an idea would come to mind and without taking the time to search out the matter or even take it to God for clear direction, I have run full steam ahead in the wrong direction! Going through each day without consulting God is a haphazard and dangerous way to live the Christian life. But oh the joy that comes when I enter His throne room with an honest desire to know His will! Such was the case throughout last night and into this morning.

I had two different issues I was ready to move forward on until various sources encouraged me to really pray about my decisions and wait for clear direction from the Lord. They didn’t say whether or not they agreed with what I was considering, they just urged me to see what God would have me do. I believe God was revealing to them an impulsiveness on my part whereby I was acting independent of Him. I was assuming what sounded good and made sense to me automatically carried His seal of approval. Such childish faith on my part is what God desires to rein in and mature in me.

So, I did what I have learned is the wise thing in cases of uncertainty. I heeded their advice and began earnestly praying about my plans. Within minutes God began to give me insight into one of the two areas. I saw much of it was based in fear and a strong desire to “fix” things on my own. Lack of trust was abounding! As I continued to seek Him, He began to show me a much better way to handle the situation. His counsel continues to pour over me as He now has my attention.

The second issue was not put to rest until this morning. While there may come a time to proceed with the course of action, right now is not the time. There are too many variables involved that require His leading and guiding. I rest in the fact that what needs to be revealed will be revealed in His way and in His time. If I am to be His spokeswoman to another individual I will accept that position, but if not I will remain silent and yet fierce in prayer. I have sought Him. He has guided me and lead me beside precious streams of water. I rejoice!

Father, Your ways are higher than my ways, and Your thoughts are higher than my thoughts. I trust Your wisdom and I follow Your lead! Amen.