GPS-Guides Are Good

MAY 12  / Sunday – Read Ps 119:105 / Jn 16:13-14 / 1 Sam 3:10 / Matt 28:20

Overview: Life’s path doesn’t rely on GPS. It frequently routes us through rough terrain and uncertainty. The Resurrection matters because we have not only the guidebook to help, but the guide to show the way–and guides are good.

13 / Mon – The experienced guide  |  Read  Psalm 23:2-4

When facing unfamiliar territory, a wise person will look for someone who has traveled that path before and will help them avoid pitfalls and dangerous mistakes. Today, you can get help from financial advisors, marriage counselors, health professionals and spiritual mentors. But in Jesus, you have the ultimate guide in any life situation. He knows what you are going through because he lived a human life. Because of the resurrection, you have a guide you can trust, even in the dark. What do you need him to guide you through at this moment?

14 / Tue – Read, then act  |  Read Ps 119:105 / 2 Tim 3:16-17 / Jn 14:15-17, 26 and 16:12-15

God created each of us and knows the best way for us to go. He inspired human authors to write down His words and His ways in the Bible. Jesus came to demonstrate the life God wants us to live as recorded in the gospels. Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 5-7 are an amazing guide for all kinds of situations. After his ascension, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to be our internal GPS, guiding us into all truth, convicting us when we veer off in the wrong direction. Are you following Jesus’ words?

15 / Wed – Guideposts  |  Read Exodus 20:1-20 / Mark 12:28-34a

Today’s verses highlight two examples of God’s guideposts. The 10 commandments were given to the Israelites, showing them God’s way to live after leaving a pagan culture. Then Jesus came. His teachings helped people understand that God isn’t looking for robotic legalistic obedience but an obedience based on love. Mark records Jesus’ summary that encompasses how we are called to live. These are all God’s holy words, the guideposts that keep us on the path marked for us. Has life caused you to wander off the Lord’s path? How did you repent and find your way back?

16 / Thu – Plans we make  |  Read Proverbs 3:5-6 / Proverbs 16:9

We all make plans and it is good to set a course for the future. But it’s more important to keep the focus on God throughout, because ultimately His plan for us is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with ours. What might look like a disappointment is actually part of the road He has set out for you. Have plans appeared to backfire in your life, pulling you from your intended path? What helps you to lean on God’s guidance instead of going it alone?

17 / Fri – Parents  |  Read Philippians 4:19

On Sunday we celebrated Mother’s Day. Parents are important guides God uses to help children learn as they grow up. Your parents may have guided you well. Or maybe they modeled what not to do. Whatever your experience, did God use other adults in your life to guide you by their example? We all have free will so we can decide who to follow. We also decide how we will live as an example to others. If you want to be a positive guide, you can be, with God’s help. Will you rely on Him?

18 / Sat – Divine guidance  |  Read 1 Samuel 3:10 / Psalm 32:8-10

Do you know someone who refuses to ask for directions, even when completely lost? Fortunately we have navigation systems on our phones and in our cars and even old-fashioned road maps. But none of these work if we don’t use them. Often it’s too easy to rely on ourselves to get through challenging situations. God has many ways of speaking to those who will listen. Will you release all of your difficulties to the Lord and open your ears and heart to His direction?