The Ways of God

Psalm 25:1-5

Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths. (Ps. 25:4)

"YOU SHOULDN'T BE DOING YOUR son's laundry," Laura told me. Although we had been friends for years, when Laura suddenly became critical of many things I did, even the Bible translation I used, I considered breaking off our friendship. Who needs a friend like this? I thought. But one Sunday as I stood in church worshiping, I felt impressed to take Laura a loaf of homemade bread. No way! I don't want to be kind to someone who treats me badly. Yet, as I prayed about our friendship, the thought to bring her bread returned. When I showed up at my friend's door with the bread in hand, our friendship began to heal. The psalmist, David, longed to know God's ways, and believers today, too, want to understand His righteous paths. However, many times we find His ways are different than ours. Here are some principles for understanding the ways of God: (1) Have a sincere desire to be led by God; (2) pray, asking God to shine His light on your situation; (3) read His Word with an open mind; (4) wait on God for the answer. Be aware, however, Jesus followed His Father's path perfectly and it meant a cross. God wants to teach us how to handle our dilemmas using biblical principles. Although His ways won't always make sense to us, His methods are guaranteed successful.

Jewell Johnson

Pray for wisdom to discern God's way in a troubled relationship. Then do it!