Has anyone else had a difficult time knowing what to look for?

It always seems like everything in life should be already understood, especially where we should go next.

We all have dreams and hopes of what we want our life to look like and be about, but what happens when those dreams aren’t coming true?

Do we question ourselves? Question God? Question our leaders? Question our past decisions?

I know I have done all of the above, and still I’ve come to a place where it doesn’t hurt like it used to (the wound isn’t as fresh anymore). But still, I wonder if I will ever be where I would like.

Dreams and aspirations are important to have, but I think there is a place for wisdom as we go through life.

Devastation, depression, and doubt are just a few of the places we can find ourselves when routes change destinations.

But what if we can use tools that we all can access to do our best to walk in a direction that isn’t terrible?

I think some of us have experienced hurt so many times it feels like there is no where else to turn.

Others of us have tasted lives that we loved and were ripped away from, only hoping to experience that again some day.

Either way, if our hearts are not positioned on Jesus and what He is setting out for us, life can be a rollercoaster and introduce us to more heartache than we signed up for.

One scripture that comes to mind is Proverbs 16:9.

The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.

This should be our reminder as we live with expectations and make preparations. When we start getting into the nitty-gritty, that’s when we find upset and confusion. But when we seek God and plan our lives with a deep understanding that He knows what’s best, that He is the ultimate Author and Forerunner, we can be sure to operate in trust and put aside fear.

With everything, there is uncertainty. There is no avoiding it. When that uncertainty is given to God, He is able to make things enjoyable, whole, and pleasing. He doesn’t desire for His loved ones to experience pain, although sometimes it’s just a part of it, but He knows that within trust there is protection for His people. That within walking with Him we will be covered.

Psalm 91:1 says, He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.

I don’t think there is anything truer than that. No matter where we find ourselves, as long as we’re with Him, we will be protected. And I don’t mean we walk with invincibility. I don’t see that with any Bible heroes… But what I do know is that He will be much closer for the embrace of a lifetime when things come our way. He will be right there to share His goodness when life seems daunting.

Instead of dismissing our hopes or forgetting our plans, let’s just lean into the one who is the greatest guide of all time and see where He takes us.