GOD'S GUIDANCE BRINGS JOY

Thinking and acting on our own self-centered thoughts often results in confusion and grief. Too often when we choose to follow our familiar selfish ways and ignore the guidance of the Holy Spirit we end up in despair. 

On the other hand, when we walk surrendered to, and empowered by, the Holy Spirit we experience more and more confidence and hope. 

 Our hope comes from God. May He fill you with joy and peace because of your trust in Him. May your hope grow stronger by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

What steals our joy in life and causes us to stumble? The main root cause is pride.  We begin to think of ourselves more highly than we ought. 

We start to find fault in the people around us, in our colleagues, our leaders and mentors.  We blame our environment and others for our discontent. 

We start to feel confident in our own ability to manage life without the input of others.  Our prideful thinking makes us feel we can succeed on our own without the help and guidance of our awesome God and that sadly, is a deadly error in judgment.

You have felt secure in your evil ways.  You have said, ‘No one sees what I’m doing.’ Your wisdom and knowledge lead you down the wrong path.  You say to yourself, ‘I am like a god. No one is greater than I am.’ Isaiah 47:10

God is a God of order; He is not a God of confusion.  Surrendering our minds to Him brings peace to our whole being.  When our hearts are quiet we begin to notice beauty around us, in us, and in others and that results in quiet joy deep within. 

Gracious God, Forgive us for the times we think we can take care of ourselves on our own. 

Once again today, we admit that we are powerless to live life well without You.  We turn our will and our life over to your care.  Help us to know the peace and joy that comes from wholeheartedly surrendering to You and Your ways.  Amen

The guided life is the life of joy and rest. Let’s “have at it,” as the saying goes. Have a great day.