Since I fully dedicated my life to Christ, I have always wanted to do His will. I wanted to make sure I picked the right major and invested in the right things at my campus ministry. I wanted to make sure I was in the right relationship, and then, when I became single, I've wanted to be sure that I wait to be in a relationship with the right man.
Now, as a senior in college, I've been so worried about making the right decisions after I graduate. Should I go to graduate school? Where should I go to graduate school? Should I stay on campus and intern at my campus ministry? Should I go to seminary? Should I go abroad? What if I meet someone? Should I stay where he is or leave?
I have asked these questions to myself and other people countless times in the past few months. And I have cried out to the Lord for answers. But I still didn't feel like I was getting anywhere.
Then, a couple of weeks ago, I sat down with one of my first Christian mentors in college. And she asked me such an important question: "What have you been reading in God's Word?" And the truth was I hadn't been reading anything. I got caught up in the craziness of life and wasn't taking time to pause and sit in God's presence. Then, she said, "If you're seeking counsel, why not go to the Mighty Counselor?"
And she was so right. I had been asking God what He wanted in moments of desperation and was waiting for some miraculous sign. I just wanted him to send a note or an email or even a text telling me what he wanted me to do. But that's usually not what God does, although He is perfectly capable.
As I continued to struggle with this and began digging back into the Word, I also began reading a book called "Just Do Something" by Kevin DeYoung. This book is also about taking a step into action rather than sitting around and doing nothing while we wait for God to hand-deliver our answers.
DeYoung talks about how we can't mess up God's ultimate plan for us. He will have His way, whether we like it or not. A big fish swallowing Jonah when he didn't listen to God's direction is indicative of that. Romans 8:28 also says, "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." We will make mistakes, because we are human, and we have free will. But God already knows the mistakes we are going to make. And He has still crafted a plan that will steer us back in the right direction.
I'm still not 100% sure about what God wants me to do with my life. But I'm starting to step out on faith and begin heading in one direction while also seeking to be grounded in His Word and in prayer. Ultimately, I know God's will for my life is to glorify Him.
And that's His will for you, too. If you are struggling with a decision, just seek to glorify Him, and He will guide you. And all the while, keep this part of the Lord's Prayer in mind: "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven."
