A Devotion
Some days we search so hard for a sign. A visible, tangible, audible message from God. Neon arrows, flashing the way we must turn. Handwriting on the wall, showing the choice we should make. A deep voice, saying the task we must do. A detectable, discernible, actual, factual, in your face sign from Heaven. Simplifying the stress and the mess. Eliminating the mistakes. For we so desperately crave a perfectly pleasing performance for our Creator. But sometimes, it’s in the darkness, in the mess, in the pain and the problems- the weary worry and the wilderness wanderings- where we discover the phenomenal Presence of God. For it’s no longer about our performance but about Christ’s Perfection. His Ability to turn our mess into His Message. His Truth that ALL things will work for our good. His Power for no problems we create will ever be bigger or stronger than His Plan for our lives. So instead of searching for a sign to prevent mistakes, try trusting in the One who provides mercy. Faithfully knowing even if we cannot see, touch, or hear Him, He is always with us. And if we take a wrong turn, make a wrong choice, or do a wrong task…our Shepherd will always draw us lovingly back to Him. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. (Ezekiel 34:12, NIV) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him… (Romans 8:28) In all their suffering he also suffered, and he personally rescued them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them. (Isaiah 63:9a, NLT) I have loved you, O my people, with an everlasting love; with loving-kindness I have drawn you to me. (Jeremiah 31:3, TLB) -Jess Hall
