I make it a point to check in with myself regularly and ask "am I going where I want to be going?" It's easy to get sidetracked, distracted, pulled off-course. But on the road to success (where we want to go), there ARE often distractions. That's just life. I remind myself that I need to continually refocus and bring myself back on course.
But God sometimes reminds me that there's often a lesson to be learned in these distractions and detours. Sometimes they're an important part of the journey, and are there for a valuable purpose. I, however, often fail to see the purpose until I've gone through the detour. I get frustrated and even angry that I'm not heading in the direction I think I need to be going. Are you ever like that? I forget that the last distraction, bump in the road, detour, actually taught me something that was of benefit to me or others.
God often works that way. He gives me an idea of where I should go, leads me in what directions I should take, and lets me travel along for a while before bringing me to a sign that reads "This Way Next" I turn onto that path, then get my panties in a twist when I determine that the road isn't taking me where I want to go....or IS taking me where I want to go, but is taking longer than I think it should take!
Detours I take are, thankfully, never out of God's control. But sometimes they're the result of my being bull-headed. I often get something into my head and blast on ahead, asking God to bless my idea and come along for the ride. it must be God's will if I prayed for direction, right? Ha! Never mind that I didn't WAIT for direction, but plowed ahead with my own idea before consulting Him or waiting for His answer or input!
A number of things can take me off course. but having a clear goal (where I need to be/go/do) helps me get started. I want God to be the One Who gives me my goals. And I need to continually check in with Him for guidance and direction. I need to remember that HE is in control of my journey. Any bumps along the way can be lessons learned...even if they're of my own feeble doing.
"In (her) heart a (wo)man plans (her) course, but the Lord determines (her) steps." Proverbs 16:9
My prayer: "Lord, help me stay in step with You."
