A Guiding Promise
You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me up in glory.
Psalm 73:24 (CSB)
We are in an age of technology that enables us to find directions either at the click of a button or by speaking. We rely on GPS systems to assist us in our travels and help us overcome challenges on our journey toward our desired destinations. However, when reflecting on our personal lives, we must acknowledge that the Lord desires to be the guiding force in our lives as he leads us to fulfill his promises. As stated in Psalm 73:24, the Psalmist writes, “You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me up in glory.” This verse highlights the guiding promise available to the child of God.
The Guiding Principle.
The Psalmist observed that life's guidance is provided by the Lord. This is because sheep lack a sense of direction. We tend to focus only on our current situations and often lack the foresight needed to navigate future challenges. While we may have an idea of our destination, we are unsure of the best way to get there. The guiding principle indicates that the Lord leads us at every step and moment along our journey. As the Great Shepherd, He directs us, His sheep, along the path until we reach our final destination.
The journey under the Lord’s guidance unfolds systematically. As each moment arrives, He reveals the next step. Occasionally, more direction may be offered, yet we trust that He will lead us in His own timing and manner. This guiding principle requires us to relinquish our desires and goals to the Lord, allowing Him, as our Shepherd, to steer our lives.
The Presence of Counsel. The Lord not only guides us but also offers counsel throughout our journey. When confronted with tough decisions, we often seek advice from those who have traveled similar paths. We look for wisdom to help us navigate our future. God provides us with the necessary counsel and insight for our journey. He may use others to impart wisdom to us or communicate directly. Ultimately, He ensures we have the guidance we need to follow His will.
We need to examine the influential voices in our lives. From where do we seek advice and insight? Do we turn to technology for guidance? Do we look for wisdom from others? Do we rely on worldly knowledge? Once we identify our sources of counsel, if they do not include the Lord, will we abandon those sources and seek the ultimate source of guidance, which is the Lord?
The Promise of Glory. The Lord wishes to welcome His children into His presence. He offers the way to reach heaven and live eternally in His glorious presence. We can receive this gift by entering a relationship with Jesus and following Him. The Lord prepares us for eternity and encourages us to place our full trust in Him. The believer's journey toward glory isn't navigated through GPS coordinates, but instead follows the Lord’s guidance and counsel. The promise of glory signifies our ultimate destination.
As you reflect on your life, are you on a path to dwell in the Lord's glory for eternity? Does your life mirror the Lord and adhere to His guidance? Are you acknowledging that the Lord’s journey might differ from your expectations of how your story would unfold? The reality is that the Lord wishes to lead us with His counsel and welcome us into His glory. Is the Lord actively directing and shaping your life?
QUESTIONS
How can you turn off the voices of distraction and develop more consistency in seeking the Lord alone for counsel?
What steps can you take to overcome the threat of wanting to know the entire journey God has planned for your life and trust His step by step guidance?
