Moving One Step at a Time
Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105 (NLT)
So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.
Matthew 6:34 (NLT)
I can remember times I looked so far down the road that I became overwhelmed by the big project in front of me or the entire next season of life. How daunting! Have you ever experienced that? One thing that's been really helpful for me (and relieving) is to break down the big picture into smaller parts and simply move one step at a time.
There are good reasons for not carrying the burden of the entire future on my shoulders. First, circumstances change. There are so many things out of my control. Second, my first step will likely lead to a better next step. I will learn things along the way. Third, where I thought I was going might not be where I was meant to end up, so dwelling on the future could easily take me off the right path.
Thankfully, there's another way. Today's Scripture reminds us that God gives us direction, most often one step at a time. His Word is a lamp and light for our path, not a spotlight on the whole journey! That's why the verse from Matthew above says the word today twice! You and I don't need to figure the whole thing out. What simple steps can you take today that you already know to take? If you're unsure, ask God. That's your best next step! And as the worries of tomorrow and all the troubles from the past come flooding in, may you take a moment to pause and remember that God often moves us one step at a time.
Application: As you go through this day, trust Jesus to provide the strength you need moment by moment. Don't waste energy wondering whether you are adequate for today's journey. Jesus' Spirit within you is more than sufficient to handle whatever this day may bring.
Prayer: God, I confess to You that I often want to see further down the road than You want me to see. I like to have control and be in control. I release all that to You and ask You to fill me with Your peace and help me experience Your presence more continually today, one step at a time. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?