Daily Directives

Then the disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. Matthew 21:6 Amplified Bible

A couple of years ago, I took a trip from Indianapolis, Indiana, to Athens, Georgia. I printed off directions from MapQuest and got an early start! I knew where I was going and even had the printed instructions for how to get there, but I misread them and ended up adding many miles and hours to my trip! Later on, I discovered what I had done wrong and the trip back was shorter and faster. That error turned into a lesson of great value in how to read and follow MapQuest directions.

Fleshing out Matthew 21:6 took longer for me to learn. I had become adapt at following the directions of individuals and churches but I floundered to hear Jesus’ instructions to me. I was unsure of His voice, intentions, and desires. The thought that Jesus wanted to be personally involved in my every day life was foreign to me. I did not know how to go to Him for answers, directions, instructions, help, comfort, or wisdom. Not only was I uncomfortable talking to Him, I was unsure of how to listen to Him. “The Lord told me” was not a part of my vocabulary. The relationship I had with Him was strained, uncomfortable, and shaky much of the time.

I now read of the disciples going and doing what Jesus commanded them and the words seem more familiar to me. Their relationship with Jesus was such that they knew when He was talking to them, what He was saying to them, and what it was they were suppose to do. Their obedience was in response to His voice. There was no second guessing, no confusion, and no need to consult with others.

I want their confident obedience to be what marks my daily life. I want to be aware of His directions to me personally. Whether it has to do with my words, actions, thoughts, or motives, I want to hear His instructions and follow them with abandon. And that is possible because now I know His words to me are built on a foundation of love, mercy, and grace, I also have the assurance that His Spirit will give me the ability to carry out His commands. It is a matter of uniting my heart, mind, will, and emotions with His. When that happens, then Matthew 21:6 becomes a reality for me rather than just a description of someone else’s life.

Father, may hearing Your voice and obeying Your commands be my daily experience of knowing You. Amen.