Have You Consulted with God

Genesis 46:1-4, KJV

1 And Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac. 2 And God spake unto Israel in the visions of the night, and said, Jacob, Jacob. And he said, Here am I. 3 And he said, I am God, the God of thy father: fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation: 4 I will go down with thee into Egypt; and I will also surely bring thee up again: and Joseph shall put his hand upon thine eyes.

Many times, our lives are filled with countless ideas, dreams, passions, and ambitions. Sometimes, these are born from a deep yearning for something more fulfilling than what we're currently experiencing.  Other times, they may arise from the suggestions of others or the necessity of change.  Regardless of where these aspirations come from, they lead us down new paths, prompting us to take steps forward in life.

If this is something you've been pondering or can relate to, how do you know if the journey you're embarking on is one God wants you to follow? What gives you the peace and reassurance that you're following the will of God? And when God instructs you to move forward, what motivates you to take the first step?

In my study of Genesis, I found myself reflecting on the life of Jacob. His story is one of multiple redirections – whether fleeing from his brother Esau, returning home after years of exile, or finally reuniting with his long-lost son, Joseph. Each time, Jacob faced a whirlwind of emotions: anxiety, uncertainty, and fear. Yet, in every instance, what brought him peace was his communication with God. It was during those moments of prayer and communion with God that he found not only reassurance but also divine authorization to continue his journey.

Jacob's story reminded me of the importance of consulting with God in times of uncertainty. We often make decisions, whether it's moving to a new city, taking a new job, or changing directions in life, without pausing to seek God's will. But in those moments of confusion, it is essential that we turn to God for clarity. He will speak peace into our hearts and give us the confidence to take the next step.

If you're facing a difficult decision or uncertain about the direction to take, you're not alone. I've been there too. About 15 years ago, I made one of the biggest changes in my life when I moved over 1,100 miles away from my family and friends. It was a leap of faith, stepping into the unknown with no support system. But I knew God was guiding me. I took time to seek Him, and He opened doors and made provisions that I could not have anticipated. And here I am, 15 years later, experiencing His faithfulness in ways that only He could orchestrate.

I hope this encourages you to know that your spirit does not have to be troubled in moments of uncertainty. God is ready and willing to hear your heart's cry and will lead you with clarity and peace. If you are uncertain about your next steps today, take comfort in knowing that God is always near, ready to guide you in His perfect will.

Prayer,

Father God, I pray for the man, woman, or child who may be carrying a burden of uncertainty, worrying about the path they should take. I ask that they seek you for guidance, wisdom, and provision at this moment. Give them the peace and faith to know that Your will is always good. Father, order their footsteps one by one and allow them to follow You with boldness and confidence. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection:

If you find yourself wrestling with doubt or fear today, take a moment to pause and reflect. Identify the sources of your apprehension and then be honest with God about your concerns. Speak to Him freely and openly, allowing yourself to hear His still, small voice. Trust that He will guide you with clarity, providing peace that transcends all understanding.

Be Blessed!

Harriet Lane