Daily Devotional for Friday October 1, 1999

Moving Ahead Of God

Moving ahead of God. So often, we get far, far ahead of God because of our impatience. Usually, we pay a big price for trying to move without God's direction. There is a special place that we all try to get to in our daily relationship with Christ. It is that special place that is hard to put into words, but you know it when you get there. You are in a close daily fellowship with Him, you communicate with Him throughout the day (I believe this is what Paul meant when he said to pray without ceasing), and your actions and decisions are totally guided by the Spirit.

When we are not in that special "zone", we are usually making decisions on our own, doing things without really praying about it, doing what we want to do without seeing if that is really what God wants us to do. You can do that because you have the free will to make your own decisions. But in trying to live this way, you will ALWAYS make some major mistakes along the way that you will ultimately pay a dear price for down the road. This really pertains to every aspect of your life, your family life, your relationships, your job, the things you do for recreation, where you go to church...EVERY aspect of your life.

Let me encourage you today. Quit doing it your way. The Bible says two very profound things. First, "without me you can do nothing". Second, "you are to die to self". That means without Jesus, in your own strength and wisdom you can do nothing, and if you have given your life to Him, it is not your life anymore...it is HIS! Get into that close, daily fellowship and start letting God guide your decisions. It may not be exactly what you want, but you will be surprised how much pain and heartache you avoid when you do it His way and not yours. Plus, you will be right where He wants you, doing the things He wants you to do. Isn't that where we really want to be?

May His richest blessings be with you today as we follow His direction for our lives.