Following Jesus From the Edges – Seeking Direction

Following Jesus From the Edges – Morning Devotions

Seeking Direction –

Pastor Calvin Cook – July 12, 2024

Scripture focus – Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”

We plan with a purpose, we dream with a vision, we seek and we find – sometimes, we ask and we wait to receive.

This morning the Holy Spirit is speaking into my life one word, “direction”. I prayed; Lord I have direction. I know where I’m going at least for today. I know the planed-out day and days ahead. It has almost become routine. I prayed for new and freshness every day, today’s a bit different than other days. Funeral preparation, Celebration of life service, Help with preparations for a concert tonight at the church, a hospital visit, preparation for the weekend worship. Not really sure Lord why your speaking the word “direction” to me this morning.

Clarity comes in many ways but lately because I have been willing to listen to what I read it has come through scripture. This morning was no exception with the scripture focus for today from Psalm 32:8. Gently as the Spirit speaks “what about beyond the event of yesterday and today, what is the next direction you should take.” Psalm 32:9 reads for me/us to not “be like the mule or horse without understanding, which must be curbed with “bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.” (side note – the Holy Spirit should be that bit and bridle for all of us.” )

I’m getting the picture now Lord, I’m still living in and off a list of demands and “things to do” that I disguise as being about you but are they for you. I’m feeling that conviction that not all things are of you. I’ve allowed some distractions and personal wants and desires to keep from following your direction for my life. I’ve twisted and disguised the idea from Proverbs 3:5-6 that I can’t “lean on my own understanding” but trust in you and know that you will direct and guide my paths.

But wait a minute Lord. I’ve made these promises and commitments and I have to fulfill them. “For whose glory” the Spirit ask? Taking everything and turning it in for the glory of God and following all your directions might be difficult.

Here I go into the day – praying – Lord, give me direction, not just for this day, but for the days, weeks, months, years ahead. I pray from Psalms 37:23 that you will direct my steps and find delight in the way you have for me.

But wait there is more…………….now receive it.