Weekend Worship—Sometimes You Have to Go Back Before You can Move Forward

The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me. Lord, Your love is eternal; do not abandon the work of Your hands. Psalm 138:8

I think I’ve mentioned before that I’m directionally challenged. Oh, I can usually follow written directions. But give me a map—or even worse a compass—and I’m liable to wander around for hours before I find my way.

One day I was going to visit a new friend, but all I had was an address and a map. I wandered over back roads, turning left when I should have turned right, making U-turns, and generally wasting time. After an hour of frustration I pulled into a vacant parking lot, determined to figure out the right way to go.

I couldn’t make heads or tales of the map because I really had no idea where I was. That was when I thought to retrace my path until I got to somewhere familiar. Once there, I was able to orient myself in regard to the map and carefully plot out the right way to go. Now, certain of my path, I made the trip quickly and without incident.

The same thing has happened to me spiritually. At times, it seems like I’ve wandered away from God and can’t figure out which way to go next. I’ve learned that when that happens I need to stop and retrace my steps back to somewhere familiar—to the last thing I heard God say. And He’s always right there, waiting patiently for me to return, ready to help me on my way.

From the safety of His presence, I can once again plot my course, this time orienting myself to His will through Bible study, prayer, and wise counsel of trusted friends.

So I ask you, are you floundering, uncertain where you are in relation to God? Return to the last thing He told you and begin again. He’s still there, not waiting with recriminations and blame, but with love and understanding. He’ll never abandon us, but instead waits patiently for us to return so we can once again travel by His side.