I had a very clear lapse of judgment yesterday. It all started when my attention was captured by a trio of rambunctious boys playing in the cul-de-sac. The next thing I remember is grabbing a unicycle propped up in a lonely corner of my garage and wheeling it to the street. For a brief beat or two, I forgot about my age (and stiff back) and started off on my one-wheel ride. That immediately activated my distant childhood memory of how to ride a unicycle and how much focus it took to stay upright. The ride went well, but only because the distance covered was just a tad longer than my car that was parked nearby and watching nervously.
Cutting the adventure short at just one ride was no-doubt smart and it gave me a chance to let the experience provide this GOD LESSON:
Listening for and hearing God’s voice takes COMMITMENT and focus. It is never automatic and will not happen with a passive effort on our part.
What I learned riding a unicycle as a kid has taught me a powerful lesson as an adult–never grow weary of LISTENING for God with a deep commitment and focus no matter what circumstances—good or bad—are animating our life.
Even after mastering my unicycle, it was imperative to remain committed to focus on every ride to stay upright on one wheel. I have learned to do that same thing in my faith walk with Christ.
In addition to LISTENING every day for his voice and will for my life, I have also learned to maintain an open-ended relationship with him that is light on specific, prescribed steps and heavy on an openness to HEAR what he wants and needs to tell me right then in that moment.
Scripture assures us that God will clearly and completely reveal his will and divine direction when we are connected to him and LISTENING.
“Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold.” Proverbs 8:10
Our concentration and commitment in this process is critical because God’s messages are not always perfectly clear with every detail mapped out for the future. We should not bail out when there is a delay in what God is telling us. As we look back, we will see many instances where his messages came into focus over time.
I ask God to help me learn to stay open to his direction, even when I don’t understand, or it is unpleasant and painful. To help me put my trust in him and not fall for the world’s narrative which has been hijacked by the enemy.
WHAT ABOUT YOU?
What is your strategy to shut off noise—and connect with God? Is it working? Are you paying attention right now to what God would have you learn from him?
“He guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.” Proverbs 2:8-11
