Many churches throughout the world use a Bible reading schedule called a "lectionary." It's just a fancy word meaning "selected readings." Posts like this reflect on the readings for an upcoming Sunday or other Church holiday, as found in the historic one-year lectionary.
Our Old Testament reading for St. Philip and St. James promises that the LORD God is the God of all guidance. He is pictured as the teacher. Oddly enough, though, he is waiting to be gracious and show mercy.
Does this indicate that God is delaying in case we don't need help? Maybe he really doesn't want to help. Yet when we see verse 21, we realize the Lord is there, guiding us and supporting us all along the way.
Through much of life, we have been set on a good path. By knowing Scripture, by learning from parents and other wise people, by observing the way life works in community, we are likely to do fine. There should be little agonizing doubt. The Lord appoints paths for our lives and normally guides us by our abilities, interests, and opportunities. Yet sometimes we stop, unsure what to do.
It is in those times that the Lord suddenly seems close. He nudges us this way or that. Really? I'm supposed to turn right here? But I don't know where next!
Turn the corner, see where the Lord has sent you. He won't guide you wrong. Eventually you will see the path you are on as one he has appointed for you.
The Lord is there. He'll give his special gracious and merciful guidance. And sometimes we'll notice it because we wondered what to do.
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