Lighthouse Keeper

The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. (Psalm 37:23 NLT)

When I first became a Christian at 23 years old, I was terrified of the call of God. I have a degree in Mandarin Chinese and I was certain that God was going to call me to be a missionary in China. I liked my life working in sales for an ice cream brand and my company car and my sunny rented unit.

Thankfully, God is kind and loving and knows that’s not for me. Many times I have made dramatic displays of my commitment to the Lord and offered my life on the altar. These often happen in the middle of blessing when I’m sure the grace will run out because my life is so good. They have also come at times when I’ve been completely lost in a storm and had no idea what’s next. The voice of God usually answers the same way:

“Stand”. (Daniel 10:11)

You’re exactly where you need to be. I see you. I’m in control. I’m ordering your steps. (Psalm 37:23). 

Sometimes we can fall in love with the idea of looking at other saints and thinking our lives have to be like theirs. Looking at Smith Wigglesworth or the Apostle Paul or Thomas Merton or Moses can lead us to start designing a ministry that we think will please God. It’s not bad (we’ve all done it), but as Christian life goes on I’ve always been shocked at just how fitting and perfect my life is when I stop to smell the roses. The anxiety comes when we get “works” focused and think we need to do great things for God. He’s already done the greatest thing for us on the Cross and there’s no need to try and impress Him with your servitude and dedication. God sees your heart and religious displays often morph into false humility and trying to force the hand of God because you’re not sure what’s going on or you’re bored and seeking a Damascus Road (Acts 9) encounter. God is no roller coaster. Walk simply with Him day-by-day and you’ll experience the communion of intimacy with the Holy Spirit. 

God knows you better than you know yourself. He knows the future and the road ahead. He sees you. He’s good.