Numbers 9:6-8

"Wait until I find out what the LORD commands concerning you." I know I need to follow Moses' example and wait until I have the Lord's direction before making a decision. But I walk a tightrope that says on the one hand "God gave you wisdom and His Word to direct you. You don't need to ask Him about everything." Then on the other hand it says, "Jesus didn't do anything He didn't see His Father doing." Wait!! I'm confused!! How many of life's decisions do I make on my own based on what I know is truth? And how many decisions do I make only after I've waited for the Lord's direction? This issue is especially critical for those who have difficult decisions to make regarding treatment options, choosing a doctor, which medication to take, etc.

One of our staff shared a great analogy that has helped me find balance for walking this theological tightrope. God's Word and the wisdom He gives me are like guardrails on a highway. They keep me heading in the right direction, prevent me from veering off into a ditch, and put me in company with others who are on the same journey. But guardrails don't tell you how fast to drive, when to stop and help a stranded motorist and in which lane to drive. The Holy Spirit is supposed to direct and guide us within the guardrails. He knows the exact speed, course and any possible delays I'm supposed to take. That's why scripture tells us to be "led by the Spirit" (Galatians 5:18). So like Moses I do have to ask the Lord for specific directions but those directions will never lead me crashing through guardrails. My relationship with God is a partnership - my knowledge and obedience to His Word and the leading and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.