“Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions.” Psalm 119:18
This morning the Lord spoke to me through the wind—or lack of it. As I sat with my cup of coffee and my Bible open in my lap, I noticed the only movement in the shrubs and trees beyond our yard came from squirrels—playfully jumping from branch to branch—and birds—alighting for a momentary rest from their flight.
I continued to sip and watch, taking in the peace of the moment, then noticed hanging branches move by an unseen force. A gentle breeze caused them to lift, dip, and sway sideways—touched by the breath of God.
Years ago my family owned a sailboat. One of the first basics we learned was how to tell wind direction and how to use it to the fullest extent in propelling our little craft forward. Fill the sails and we sliced through the water, barely noticing the dip and crest of the waves. But, let the sails empty of wind and we floundered—at the mercy of the sea.
How did we know when we were positioning ourselves to fill our sails? By the appearance in a tiny ribbon or string extended from the top of the mast. Only when it flew straight did we know we were filling our sails for optimum speed and forward movement. Depending on the circumstances around us, it could be the most exciting ride of our lives. But that’s another story.
God had to teach us the wonderful truths of his laws of nature for us to become seasoned sailors.
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:18
In the same way, we seek his word to teach us his expectations for the true path. What we see in this world will mislead us if we don’t look to the unchangeable Creator of the Universe (and his laws) for guidance. Learning—and following—his instructions produces in us a “seasoning,” a “Christ-likeness,” and a sure sense of direction to our eternal destination.
Just as the sailor depends upon a tiny ribbon to understand the best way to fill the sails of his or her boat, we look to the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the truth and direction of God’s word.
Open God’s word. Depend upon him and he will lead you on the ride of your life.
“Your laws please me; they give me wise advice.” Psalm 119:24
by Marilyn Allison