Troubleshooting Tips In The Followers' Manual

One of our first mistakes in desiring to be led by God  is to assume that we should look for special moments or intuition or some kind of voice. Such accounts in the narrative of Scripture are by no means the biblical norm.

Our second mistake is the wish that being “led” would mean “no problems.” Frequently this mistake causes us to second guess a course of action when difficulties arise. Along with the many biographies God has given us, there are three “Explanation Guides” which could be put in the Troubleshooting section of "The Followers Manual." 

Psalm 23 – For folks who identify with stories, here is a vignette on life from the perspective of a loved sheep following the Shepherd. On the journey he finds himself in the valley of the shadow of death; a valley through which he must be led in order to get to the specially prepared pasture complete with personal grooming and refreshment.

Romans 5–12 –Are you more into logical argument?  Here the Apostle Paul begins with peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ. Then he explains how that works out in life, culminating in the realization of our giftedness for serving others. In the midst of his explanation he describes the personal battles to be expected and the mindset we must have to endure them. And, speaking of endurance...

2 Peter 1:5-8 – Prefer steps? Peter gives us a sequence of eight “steps” for life, beginning with faith and ending in two kinds of love. What is in the middle of the list? Endurance - a word which means to stay steady under a load instead of bolting for the exit. No doubt about it, burdens are in the life process of one being “led” by God. They do not mean that we are not being led. They do not mean are not following well.

Previous: Follow

Next: Mind Your Own Business

Home