by Kala Loptien

Navigation Struggles

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The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9 ESV

“Proceed to the route…Proceed to the route.” OK, OK. (my usual response) I’m hoping I’m not the only one that hears this prompt on navigation. Sometimes I truly believe that I have a better way or a shortcut. Other times, I just flat out do not trust that the navigation actually knows the area like I do. Do you have those moments?

I started thinking about how we often find ourselves in a similar pattern with our Navigator. We are told throughout the Bible to trust His plans; to believe He is working for our good; to align our steps and ultimately walk in the way He leads. Why then, do we so often struggle to hear His prompts? Why do we float in and out of genuine trust and release of control? Why can’t we just be still and know?

The problem is clearly not with our Creator. He is perfect. His plans, His timing, His direction…it’s all perfect, providential and on purpose. So then, that leaves us. What do we know of our human nature? We are imperfect–flawed and broken at best. We have a limited view and a self-centered compass. We also wrestle with a real enemy whose plan is to take us off course and ultimately derail our life. Now we know these hard and fast truths. How do we proceed to the route? It’s possible I shared this quote from Martin Luther in the past. It’s too good not to reference again.

“I know not the way God leads me, but well do I know my guide.”

That’s it, then. How well do we know our Guide? Have we been reminded of all the promises He has kept? Are we spending time in His word and sharing our hearts in fervent prayer? He continues to pursue us and uses all circumstances to bring us closer. Our lives probably haven’t gone exactly to plan. But whose plan? Our Lord — the one who sent His son to save us — HE has the route determined and ordained for each one of us. His way is the only way. Proceed to the route.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado