WAITING ON GOD’S GUIDANCE
By Carolyn Dale Newell
Be still, and know that I am God;
Psalm 46:10a
Exhaustion held me hostage. Physically, the insomnia had left me drained. Mentally and emotionally, two distinctly different dilemmas wreaked havoc in my mind.
A family member in a dire situation needed assistance. Should I help? How could I afford to help?
A major project stood at a crossroads. I needed to hear from God on which way to go. I felt trapped in a hallway with many doors, unsure which ones to open.
A dear friend texted me our focal verse.
Be still, and know that I am God; (Psalm 46:10a)
I clung to it like a hidden treasure unearthed. That was exactly what I needed to do.
First, I caught up on my sleep. A clear mind was necessary to hear what God was saying. I continued praying and seeking the Lord to confirm that He wanted me to tackle the project from another approach, almost starting over. Peace settled over me.
A few days later, I helped my family member with a monetary gift. Unsure about how I could make up for this expense, I acted in faith. My word for this year – faith.
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
God worked both situations together…for good. Because the project met a delay, the funds I had set aside were not needed now. They equaled the amount I gave my loved one. That is so God! He took two unrelated problems and brought about good.
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)
Let’s unpack Psalm 46:10 and understand what it means to “be still.” According to the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, (www.blueletterbible.com( the word “still” in this particular verse means to “desist from war.” The same word translates differently in other verses, such as “silent” and “rest.”
While I needed the physical rest, I needed the war in my mind to cease. I don’t wait well, especially when I am waiting on God to direct my footsteps.
The battle had to be silenced, so I could reflect on God. God is larger than any problem. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills. He is sovereign. And I want His will and His way.
Sometimes, the doors God opens are the doors I would have closed.
I wouldn’t have made these choices, but because I was still. Because I waited. Because I allowed God to be God, instead of charging ahead. These are the doors He chose, and because it is God’s will, it is also mine.
Friend, do you need to sit quietly, waiting for God to open a door in your hall today? Let the battles hush. And know that He is God.
Lord God, help me focus on You, not the battles swirling around me. Help me make the time to meditate on You, and know that You are God. You are my provider. You are my shield. You are my counselor. I await Your answer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DIG DEEPER
Read Psalm 46.
HIKING THE TRAIL
I know how hard it is to step back and wait on God but memorize this verse. Write it down. Let God guide you into His open doors.
Copyright 2018 Carolyn Dale Newell.
A Mountain of Faith 