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“...the Jews demand signs, and the Greeks look for wisdom.” (1 Corinthians 1:22)

    We all want “signs from God” don’t we? Whether it’s doubting Thomas, or Gideon’s fleece, we want some measurable, physical arrow pointing to the right decision in our lives.

    At lunch the other day, a friend shared an experience that truly seems to be a sign from God, and I certainly can’t dispute it. All I am saying is this; we have to be careful as to what we interpret as “signs” from God. You see, our desire for direction can quickly lead us to what “I” want to see, what “I” will interpret as a sign, and what “I” want God to do. You see the operative word here? It’s “I.” We must also be careful how we interpret our experiences. Let me share a story with you.

    Last week, I left the church building in the early evening as the Texas sunset turned the oaks a green-gold color that only exists for a few moments. Austin is one the most beautiful places in the world, and our church building is surrounded by green grass and tall oak trees. I began to realize how blessed I am, and then instantly, for some reason, I began to think of all the mistakes I’ve made.

    I began to feel worse as I thought of all the people I’ve let down, those I’ve disappointed, dreams not acheived, expectations not met. In the beautiful Austin evening, I stood there as just a broken shell of a man. At that moment, a car zooms down the street, some young lady I’ve never seen before leans out the window, cups her mouth in her hands, and screams, “LOSER!”

    What was my response?

    Laughter! I instantly realized my own humanity, and that what I preach to others, I need to practice myself. I realized that God, and some other really special people love me, and that’s what really matters.

    Now here’s the big question on the sign from God front: Was the experience a sign from God? If so, what was the message? Was God trying to shake me from my despair, or was God agreeing that yes, indeed I am a loser? Was this a chance event and I was only one recipient of the “LOSER!” yell? Was Satan just trying to grind me down when things weren’t going well? Was it because I was standing in front of a church building, and the young women was antichurch? Does God have a driveby sense of humor? I don’t know.

If God was talking, what was he trying to say?

    I DO know we can get into deep water quickly when we try to isolate and interpret one event as a sense of God’s direction. There are many opportunities to get off track, so let’s share some solid ways to stay ON TRACK in seeking God’s Will:

• God’s Word is true, and sure, and good. Stay in God’s Word. No, you probably shouldn’t use the “open the Bible and stick my finger on a verse” method and expect God to honor your discovery. The Bible is clear and direct on many things, and more general on others. Seek His will in the Word, and live accordingly.

• Any direction that involves taking part in sin is not the direction God wants you to go. That’s a no-brainer, but people justify their sinful actions by saying that good may be the eventual outcome. Beware!

• Constant prayer is essential, because God often shows us His Will through prayer. There are several reasons for this. God loves the prayers of His People, and He Hears His people when they pray! God changes things through our prayers, and he uses our prayer to change us! We become more focused, centered, and thoughtful in prayer. Finally, prayer turns down the chaotic hum of the world so we can hear the “still quiet voice” of our Creator.

• Be aware during each day of the presence of God’s Spirit in your life. Just that awareness leaves you open to God’s prompting and the Spirit’s leading! Trust that you are not alone and look for God’s help in distress, guidance in confusion, and way of escape in times of tempation.

• I have a favorite phrase I use when I have struggles (which is about everyday): “Always choose the best road, for time and habit will soon render it agreeble.” When you face the decision, make the choice that seems “most right.” How’s that for complex theology?