ARE YOU LISTENING

There were many times when David needed God’s guidance, from the time he faced Goliath, to running from Saul; from the treachery of Absalom, to his many skirmishes with the Philistines. He learned the hard way what happens when one does not follow God’s directions and decide to trust their own inclinations. On the other hand, he also experienced the joy and victories that came when he was obedient to God’s will. That’s why, whatever was troubling him at this point in his life, he chose to look back at the value of obedience and reaffirm his faith and trust in God his Savior.

“O LORD Eternal, I’m being totally honest with you, because You are my One True God, and I trust You with all my heart and soul not to let me down so others will laugh and make fun of me. Please don’t let anyone be disappointed who puts their trust in You; let those who cheat others be the one’s who are disappointed. O LORD Eternal, show me what to do and how to do it. As my One True God, be my guide and help me find Your purpose for my life, that’s all I ask. I’m reminded, O LORD Eternal: that Your compassion and steadfast love have been available from the beginning of time. That’s why I trust in Your steadfast love to keep my mind free from immature and rebellious thoughts; and I depend on You’re goodness, O LORD Eternal, to always be there for me when I need You most. For You are known, O LORD Eternal, for always doing what’s good and right; even pointing unbelievers in the right direction. You will always guide those willing to listen how to conduct themselves no matter what the situation. That’s why everything the LORD Eternal asks those who follow His commands to do, is based on steadfast love and honesty.” Psalm 25:1-10

Reflection: Madame Chiang Kai-Shek, wife of pre-Communist China’s leader and founder of the Taiwanese nation on Formosa, once told of her mother’s custom of spending hours every day in prayer. She set aside a special room on the third floor of her house for her daily devotions. When any of her children sought advice, she’d reply, “First let me ask God about it.” No matter how long it took, she prayed until she felt God gave her an answer. She never doubted for a moment that what she told her children came from Him. Often our acts, intentions, thoughts, deeds, and plans are based on emotional and intellectual impulses. Without God’s influence in our hearts and minds, those objectives may bear no resemblance to God’s real plan for our lives. Only when we bring everything to Him for editing and approval will we know that we’re on the right road headed for the right goal. Just like David, we must not allow the pressure or ridicule of those around us to become a deterrent in us being where God wants us to be, doing what He wants us to do.