22002.11 God Guides Your Steps

God’s plan for our life is usually revealed progressively, one situation at a time. Obviously, most of us would like to see the entire road map now, but that is not how God operates. He wants us to walk by faith, taking one step at a time in the direction he has planned for us. Taking that step without fear requires a communicative and trusting relationship with him.

God is your guide, companion, provider, and protector. You don’t know what the future holds. You don’t even know what lies around the next bend of life. But he does. And he is committed to caring for you. God is more capable and involved in guiding your steps and orchestrating your circumstances than you can imagine.

The Bible explains,

We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. (Proverbs 16:9, NLT)

In a crisis, the end is not in sight, and the current situation is often confusing. In such a situation, we really want to know what’s next and what to expect for the future.

God knows all things. He knows exactly what will happen tomorrow, next month, and years from now. But he only reveals solutions to us, when it is time to take that next step. Why? Because God wants us to walk by faith, taking one step at a time as he guides each step. That requires a close relationship between God and you.

He is your guide, companion, provider, and protector. His intention is not to keep you in the dark, but rather to make sure to lead you to your wonderful destination.

Jesus promises: “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.” —John 16:13

You can prepare yourself to receive truth from the Holy Spirit by:

  • Humbling yourself before God,
  • Surrendering your will to him, and
  • Reading the Bible to renew your mind with the right perspective.

Then the Holy Spirit will direct your steps through what you read in the Bible, or godly counsel, or providential circumstances.

Make me understand your ways, O Lord!
Teach me your paths!
Guide me into your truth and teach me.
For you are the God who delivers me;
on you I rely all day long. (Psalm 25:4–5)

Direct my steps by your word! (Psalm 119:133)

What do You want me to do, Lord?

“But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him. ” —James 1:5

What Does God’s Word Say

  • About my hopes and dreams?
  • About my opportunities and pursuits?
  • About my troubles and adversity?
  • About my doubts and fears?

Preparing Myself to Hear God

  • By surrendering my will to Him.
  • By humbling myself before Him.
  • By renewing my mind with His truth.
  • By having a mindset of faith, trust, and expectancy toward God.
  • By being patient and willing to wait on God.

God Reveals His Will for Me

  • Through His Word, the Bible.
  • Through the Holy Spirit Who indwells me.
  • Through other people.
  • Through providential circumstances.

Recognizing Directional Signposts

What recent insights, impressions, counsel, or signs made an impact on me that may be from God trying to guide my steps?

Making Sure the Direction is from God

Does it comply with the directions given in God’s written Word?