AN INTENTIONAL RESPONSE
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV
Theme: Prayer should be our first response when we are overwhelmed or confused.
FIRST RESPONDERS
There is something heroic about the fireman or law enforcement officer who hears the alarm or the scream and runs into the fire or towards the gunshot. Their first response is not shock or fear (though they may be fearful), but one of rescue or assistance. There is something so magnificent in a brave heart that runs toward trouble and offers any and all help, including sacrificing one’s life. Yet, how does a first responder know when running into the fray is the right response and when waiting, calling for backup, or taking another step is better? Is there a difference between an urgent situation and an emergency? A potential loss of life is a time for quick action. Not every situation requires the same quick rescue. In fact, many times waiting improves their chances of success.
MY FIRST RESPONSE
So, when my first response to a problem is to jump in and solve it, this goes against everything Jesus has been trying to teach me. His ways are better. His wisdom is greater. His plans are far above and beyond anything I could dream up. His solutions bring peace and reconciliation. My first response should be to go to Jesus. I do not have the power, might, or wisdom to affect the life-change and outcomes He desires. My duty is to go to His throne and ask Him what to do, then follow through on any directions I receive.
UNWILLING TO WAIT
In all my strivings, I can get so far ahead of God in my own plans or rescue attempts. I can forget to spend time in His Word. I can forget to meditate on all His works in my life in the past. This passage challenges me: “For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.’ But you were unwilling...” (Isaiah 30:15, ESV). Am I truly unwilling to wait on Him or to follow His lead instead of asking Him to do what I desire? I can practice rest regularly. I can practice being quiet for a few minutes each day or each hour. I can try to lean on and trust God in my everyday decisions and build my confidence so that “in quietness and trust” I will find strength and wisdom.
Make It Personal: Do you know how to wait on the Lord? To hear His wisdom and direction? To be given His strength? None of us know how to do this completely, but we can work on it! Take time right now to write down the worries or sorrows you are turning over in your mind. Don’t ask God to fix them. Ask Him to give you wisdom, comfort, and the strength to understand and the ability to do as He directs. Then just leave it there. Keep listening for His guidance. You can be sure He will show you your next step. And if that step is to wait, He will give you peace.
Pray: Lord God, You are the Light of my life. You are the Way and the Truth. I want to follow You and be led by You. Help me to stop, to tune out my first responses, and even suggestions by others, so that I might seek Your face and wisdom. Help me to follow through in all You ask me to do! I love You and want to honor You by acknowledging You and walking in Your paths. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
Read: Isaiah 40:28-31; Psalm 119:4-8, 143:10; Romans 5:6-11
Weekly Memory Verse: “For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.’ But you were unwilling...” Isaiah 30:15, ESV