Why do we let our emotions lead our path? When we do, we’re let down. So, how do we find the direction God has for us?
Sometimes I have the satisfaction of volunteering as a Spanish interpreter for events held by non-profit Christian organizations. This was what I was doing the day God taught me a lesson.
I slipped off my headphones and pulled away from the mic. “It’s lunchtime,” I said to my friend who worked alongside me.
She grabbed her purse from under the table. “Let’s go.”
I held on to her arm and we headed through the maze of corridors behind the stage, looking for our lunch room.
As we turned the corner, a delicious aroma wafted from our right. “Hmm … smells like cheesy pasta.”
“Yes,” my friend said, “I think I smell steaks, rich sauces and fresh-baked pastries too.”
We paused for a second. Our mouths watered. But, we had to press on. That banquet was reserved for the celebrities, singers and famous folks.
The lunch area assigned to the workers like us was located around the corner, and down another hallway.
We entered the room. On a table in the corner, we found a few cardboard boxes; each held a lonely half-frozen sandwich, chips, and a cookie.
As I unwrapped the sandwich, my taste buds protested longing for that delicious fresh gourmet food reserved for someone else.
I fought envy; I really did because a bit of covetousness waited on the plate in my heart.
But right before I took a bite, the greatest thing happened. My friend and I settled at the table. And as we greeted others, we found friends we hadn’t seen since the year before. In seconds, we reconnected, shared stories, laughed and learned details about those we met for the first time. What a hoot! We teased and just talked.
We took part of a greater banquet as we delighted in the laughter, simplicity of friendship and the love between colleagues and friends.
No doubt, when my friend and I had paused close to that banquet room, God was motioning to us, “C’mon, I have something better,” He might have said.
He’s saying the same to you. You might think you know what you want. But “Follow Me,” He invites. “Come this way where the best is waiting for you.
You don’t know. You might not recognize it, nor do you expect it. But I, in my sovereignty, have reserved what you need, prepared it and have it ready for you.
He might be speaking to you right now when He says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye on you. For the word of the LORD is upright, and all His work is done in truth” (Ps. 32:8 and 33:4).
And since what He does is perfect, will you trust and wait for His perfection to be revealed to you?
Father, forgive the times of my eager desires. Forgive the restlessness that fills me when I want what I think is best. Grant me peace as I wait. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Are you willing to wait and receive God’s direction?
Janet Perez Eckles is an international speaker and author of four books. She helps thousands conquer fear and bring back joy.
This article originally appeared at janetperezeckles.com.