The Voice Behind You

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it.'"
Isaiah 30:21

There often seems to be confusion about how God leads us through life. In fact, there are even questions about whether he leads us at all. Some Christians say, "God gave me a good mind and good sense, so I can make my own decisions." Others believe they must fully hear God's voice before they make any decisions. So, what is the answer? How does God interact with us in the decision-making process?
    A major purpose for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is for guidance. He is in us to counsel us and direct our paths. Many times in the New Testament, the apostles were directed by the Holy Spirit to go to particular places, to stay away from particular places, and to speak particular things to particular people. It seems to me that God is fully active in our Christian walk and daily lives..
    The verse above tells us that if we veer one way or another, there will be a voice that will give us clear direction as to the path we are to walk. There is an interesting truth in this scripture. There is an assumption made, that we are already walking somewhere. So the reality of God's involvement in our lives is dependent on the fact that we are moving in some direction. We can sit and wait for God to speak before we go anywhere, or we can move in a direction and allow him to speak and direct our path. I believe this is how God works in our lives.
    The key is to be walking in the things of God first. Then he will come alongside and direct the specifics. Even if we are headed the wrong direction, the Holy Spirit can and will make that clear to us. We simply need to pay attention and listen. There will be a voice telling us which path to walk. Then we must respond to his voice and go where he leads.
    Think about this today. If you are walking a consistent Christian life, God wants to direct your paths perfectly within his will. If you listen before you make a critical decision, he will guide you to the correct one. Try it. Listen for his voice to direct your day, your interaction with others, your decision-making processes, and your relationships. If you will listen, you will hear. Listen carefully, though. Sometimes his voice is a quiet whisper. Pay attention and find God's path for your life.