God has given us much freedom in our daily lives. And we can simply trust the wisdom and personal preferences he has given us for many of our basic decisions. But to live by faith means we must also learn to discern and follow where the Spirit leads as we seek to navigate through the wilderness of life.
A cloud led the children of Israel through the wilderness during the day, and a fire led them at night. And they did not break camp until the cloud moved – whether this was after two days, a month, or a year.
And it’s in this way that we should also follow when and where the Spirit leads us today. For instance, whether it’s considering a new job, moving to a new city, or making a major purchase, it’s good to pause and discern where God is leading us. But all too often we forget God and rush ahead with our own plans.
We like predictability and control, and so we naturally plot a course that manages all our anxieties, fears, and desires. And we can justify our decisions with all sorts of logical reasons.
On the other hand, the Spirit is like a wild goose that will not be tamed. And his path for us will not always be comfortable or safe. Much is often required of us and, like Noah, we might appear foolish to everyone else.
To be sure, we might not always understand what he’s up to or how to make sense of where he’s leading. Certainly, if it were up to us we would’ve chosen a different route. But by faith we trust in God’s goodness and that he is leading on a path toward his best. We risk many heartaches and avoidable detours when we don’t follow his lead.
In the end, exercise the freedom and wisdom God has given you to plan your days. And don’t forget to also discern and follow the Spirit wherever he leads.
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