Confused? Go Back

I will give them hearts that will recognize me as the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me wholeheartedly. Jeremiah 24:7

Now that I can see what direction God is leading, where do I go from here? Whom do I talk to? Where can I go for help? How do I handle roadblocks? obstacles? opposition? How can I move the dream further? How can I move myself forward?

When I am confused in any way, I go back to the people, places, and passages of Scripture that first helped me understand the truth about God and myself.

People: Go back to the people who best explained the plan of God to you. Some of our best friends and mentors were first our professors or disciplers. When I feel unsure, I may even reread books that were pivotal in my growth.

Places: When we have a big decision ahead or need some clarity, we go back to the same comforting places, such as Christian conference centers or favorite vacation spots to seek God again. God can speak anywhere, but we have noticed we “hear” better in some places! There’s something reassuring about going back to the same chapel where you first heard the call, to listen again.

Passages: When I am seeking God, I often go back to the verses I have underlined or highlighted in my Bible. Hezekiah, a good king of Israel, sent a letter throughout all Israel that is good advice today: “People of Israel, return to the Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, that he may return to you who are left” (2 Chronicles 30:6, NIV).

Remembering how God has led in the past brings a sense of security. By going back, I often get what I need to go forward.